Already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, the Atlas Lions secured another victory in Group E with a 2-0 win over Zambia on Monday, September 8, despite sweltering heat and a poor pitch.
From the very start of the match, the Zambian hosts put the Moroccan defense under pressure and tested the Atlas Lions several times. However, following a recovery by Bilal El Khannouss, Youssef El-Nesyri capitalized on a defensive error to open the scoring in the 7th minute, giving Morocco an early lead.
The Chipolopolo continued to press and created several chances. The clearest opportunity came in the 30th minute when a header from Patson Daka was tipped over by Yassine Bounou, preventing an equalizer. Despite this local dominance, Morocco managed to maintain their lead until halftime.
The second half got off to the best possible start for the Atlas Lions. Just two minutes after the restart, Hamza Igamane, who had already scored against Niger, doubled the lead with a perfectly placed long-range shot, bringing the score to 2-0.
Despite this lead, the Zambians continued to pose a threat, but Morocco’s solidity and experience ensured they held on to the score until the final whistle.
This victory highlights the strength of great teams: knowing how to win under all circumstances, even against a determined opponent and in difficult conditions. Thanks to this success, Morocco cements its top spot in the group and will be eager to secure a win against Congo in the final matchday, aiming to complete their qualifying campaign with a perfect record.
