CAN 2025: Morocco’s Round of 16 Qualification Scenario

Morocco already has the opportunity to qualify for the round of 16 of its African Cup of Nations. The host country, which beat the Comoros in the opening match (2-0), faces Mali this Friday at 9 p.m. at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium in Rabat.

A victory would ensure the Atlas Lions qualify for the next round, or even first place in Group A in the event of a draw between Zambia and the Comoros (6:30 p.m.).

A draw against Mali could allow Morocco to finish at least third in their group, if Zambia beats the Comoros earlier in the day. Walid Regragui’s team would then have a good chance of qualifying, since the four best third-placed players in the group stage have access to the eighth.

Last Monday, the Atlas Lions showed authority against the Comoros, with a goal from Brahim Diaz then a sumptuous acrobatic return from Ayoub El Kaabi during the first day of competition.

The match against Mali, this Friday, December 26, will also be commented live on the Parisien website.

Aiko Tanaka

Aiko Tanaka is a combat sports journalist and general sports reporter at Archysport. A former competitive judoka who represented Japan at the Asian Games, Aiko brings firsthand athletic experience to her coverage of judo, martial arts, and Olympic sports. Beyond combat sports, Aiko covers breaking sports news, major international events, and the stories that cut across disciplines — from doping scandals to governance issues to the business side of global sport. She is passionate about elevating the profile of underrepresented sports and athletes.

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