Host nation Morocco secured their place in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 3-0 victory over Zambia on Tuesday.
The Atlas Lions delivered a near-flawless performance to finish top of Group F and advance to the knockout phase.
In other action, South Africa survived a tense encounter to beat Zimbabwe 3-2, with Oswin Appollis scoring the decisive penalty. Despite the win, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos criticized his team’s overall performance after they twice surrendered their lead.
Mali joined Morocco in progressing from the group after holding Comoros to a goalless draw, despite playing much of the match with ten men following Amadou Haidara’s controversial red card.
Elsewhere, Egypt, having already secured top spot in Group B—rested captain Mohamed Salah and several other starters in a 0-0 draw against Angola in Agadir. The Pharaohs finished the group stage with seven points and will also advance to the Round of 16.
The tournament now moves into its decisive knockout phase, with several pre-tournament favorites confirming their credentials in the final round of group matches.
