Zambia 0-1 Morocco: Ziyech lone strike sees Atlas Lions win Group F and eliminate Zambia

Morocco's triumph with a 1-0 victory over Zambia resulted in their domination of Group F at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This remarkable achievement extended their unbeaten streak to eight consecutive games for the Atlas Lions, while simultaneously eliminating Zambia from the tournament.

The Group F finale at the Stade de San Pedro was filled with tension as Zambia faced off against Morocco, with both teams vying for a spot in the Round of 16.

The pressure was particularly intense for Zambia, the 2012 AFCON Champions, as they needed at least a draw to have a chance at automatic qualification. On the other hand, Group leaders Morocco only needed to avoid defeat.

Zambia had a shaky start, and their nerves were almost compounded within the first 10 minutes when Ismael Saibari found himself with too much space in the area. However, Stoppila Sunzu made a crucial block to deny his effort.

The Copper Bullets had struggled against Morocco in their previous encounters, managing only one victory in their last six attempts.

They continued to struggle in the first half, taking over 30 minutes to register a shot on target, courtesy of Emmanuel Banda from long range.

Just before halftime, the Atlas Lions finally broke through with a well-deserved goal from Hakim Ziyech. He capitalized on Tresford Lawrence Mulenga's save and smashed the ball into the net, giving Morocco a 1-0 lead going into the break.

Morocco sought to secure their victory after the restart and came close to achieving their goal when Amine Adli made a breakthrough into the box. However, his certain goal was denied by an outstanding save from Mulenga.

The Atlas Lions were nearly punished for not extending their lead when the dangerous Lameck Banda skillfully maneuvered past two defenders.

He then unleashed a curling shot that narrowly missed the post, serving as a reminder to everyone in the stadium that Zambia was still in the game.

With a loss meaning elimination from the tournament for the Copper Bullets, Zambia continued to search for an essential equalizer. However, they failed to even register a shot on target throughout the second half, which lasted for over 40 minutes.

Emmanuel Banda had Zambia's best opportunity in the second half, but his effort was easily saved by Yassine Bounou. This sealed the fate of the Copper Bullets with a 1-0 defeat.

On the other hand, Morocco's victory ensured their unbeaten record in Group F, finishing at the top with seven points. Meanwhile, Zambia ended up in third place with two points.