U23 AFCON: Morocco Thrashes Ghana, Books Semi-Final Spot
Hosts Morocco became the first team to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the CAF U23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), thrashing Ghana 5-1 in their Group A encounter, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Fueled by the roar of its home crowd, the Moroccan team wasted no time in asserting their dominance, taking a 2-0 lead within the opening 13 minutes. Oussama El Azzouzi broke the deadlock after seven minutes with a well-timed header, while Ismael Saibari extended the advantage just six minutes later.
Despite their best efforts to settle into the rhythm of the game, the Ghanaian side struggled to gain a foothold as Morocco continued to assert its authority through possession and rapid transitions. Yanis Redha Begraoui further extended Morocco’s lead with a well-crafted goal, resulting from excellent interplay among the teammates. 3-0!
Then just before halftime, Ghanaian midfielder Salim Adams provided a glimmer of hope for his side after pulling one back for the Meteors. 3-1. However, Ghana’s optimism was dashed as Fatawu Issahaku’s long-range strike in the dying seconds of the first half was disallowed.
Morocco wasted no time in resuming their attacking prowess after the break, swiftly extending its lead in the 48th minute. Ghana’s Terry Yegbe’s failed clearance allowed Morocco’s captain, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli to slot home from close range, bringing the scores to 4-1.
Morocco capitalised on a swift counter-attack as they outpaced the Ghanaian defenders, with Yanis Redha Begraoui securing his second goal of the evening to blow the Ghanians away.
The match finished 5-1 in favour of Morocco, who bombarded Ghana’s defence with attack upon attack to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the U23 AFCON tournament on home soil.
Morocco’s brilliant display also served as a testament to its status as formidable contenders for the coveted U23 African title.
FULL-TIME ⏰
Morocco stun Ghana with a 5-goal, 5-star performance to earn qualification 🌟
🇲🇦 5-1 🇬🇭 #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 | #MARGHA pic.twitter.com/dxROHgxBzq
— #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 🏆 (@CAF_Online) June 27, 2023
Under the guidance of coach Issam Charai, Morocco showcased its prowess, amassing an impressive six points following their earlier 2-1 triumph against Guinea.
With an impressive seven goals scored and three conceded in their two matches, Morocco will now prepare to face Congo Brazzaville in their final Group A encounter on June 30th, back on familiar turf in Rabat.
With 2 wins out of 2, Hosts Morocco are officially qualified to the semi-finals 👏🇲🇦#TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 pic.twitter.com/AF6zUwqtT6
— #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 🏆 (@CAF_Online) June 27, 2023
Tuesday’s U23 AFCON results
Congo Republic 1-3 Guinea
Morocco 5-1 Ghana.
