Hakim Ziyech Put on a Show

Morocco Continues to Enhance Its Reputation

Morocco made a good start to the AFCON qualifiers! On Friday they defeated their opponents Gabon 4-1.

As hosts, they’ve already secured their place in the tournament. Nevertheless, they put in an impressive performance. Hakim Ziyech showed his skills with a standout performance and led his team. The Galatasaray midfielder scored the first goal with a Panenka-style penalty.

The Gabon goalkeeper was unable to deal with the bold strike. Aubameyang had a chance to equalise shortly after. But he could not convert the opportunity into a goal.

A total of 4 penalties were used in the first half. So it was quite an eventful match. Fortunately, Ziyech managed to score his second penalty of the match. Aubameyang scored on his second attempt.

In the second half, Morocco increased the difference with Brahim Diaz’s goal in the 59th minute. El Kaabi secured the win with his fourth goal in the 82nd minute. Morocco’s participation in AFCON 2025 as the host is already certain.

Morocco will return to the continental stage as one of Africa’s football powerhouses at the tournament, which will take place between 21 December 2025 and 18 January 2026. After finishing a historic fourth at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Morocco continues to build its reputation.