Morocco secured top spot in Africa Cup of Nations Group F after a 1-0 win over Zambia on Wednesday, a result which also allowed tournament hosts Ivory Coast to narrowly reach the knockout stages.
Hakim Ziyech scored the only goal of the game in the 38th minute, reacting quickest after Zambia goalkeeper Lawrence Mulenga spilled a cross. The Chelsea winger slammed the loose ball into the net to give Morocco victory.
The win meant Morocco progressed as Group F winners, setting up a last 16 clash with South Africa. DR Congo joined them in qualifying after drawing 0-0 with Tanzania to finish second.
But the main beneficiaries were Ivory Coast, who snuck through as one of the four best third-placed teams despite losing 4-0 to Equatorial Guinea last game. Morocco’s victory ensured Zambia could not pip the Ivorians.
Ivory Coast survived by the skin of their teeth thanks to other results going their way. A humiliating defeat to Equatorial Guinea in their last group match had put their knockout stage hopes in jeopardy.
But with two goals the difference between Ivory Coast and Zambia’s goal difference, Morocco’s solitary strike to beat Chipolopolo ensured the Ivorians stayed ahead on that tiebreaker.
They will have an opportunity to redeem their image in daunting task against the defending Champions and tournament favorite Senegal.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui watched from the stands while serving a touchline ban after clashing with DR Congo’s captain last game. Regragui had to be separated from DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba after appearing to exchange heated words despite attempting to shake his hand after a 1-1 draw.
Morocco are appealing the suspension, but Regragui was still forced to observe from the stands. It was the 73rd AFCON match for Morocco and 70th for Zambia, but just the third meeting between the nations.
Zambia boss Avram Grant threw on attackers late in the game but they could not find an equalizer that would have extended their tournament.
For Ivory Coast, it continues a tumultuous campaign after off-field unrest in their camp. But they live to fight another day after Morocco’s helping hand.
The round of 16 begins on Saturday with Ivory Coast facing Senegal on January 29, while Morocco’s match against South Africa takes place the following day.
