Morocco ended their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifying campaign in style with a resounding 7-0 victory over Lesotho, solidifying their status as the top team in Group B. Meanwhile, Gabon secured second place in the group with a narrow 1-0 win against the Central African Republic (CAR). Both Morocco and Gabon had already qualified for next year’s tournament in Morocco, making the final matchday a chance to assert dominance and wrap up the qualifiers on a high note.
Morocco’s Perfect Campaign: Six Wins from Six
Playing at the Stade d’Honneur d’Oujda, Morocco treated their home fans to an attacking masterclass. The Atlas Lions extended their flawless record in Group B to six wins in six matches, completing the campaign with 18 points and an impressive +24 goal difference.
First-Half Blitz
The match was effectively over by halftime as Morocco unleashed a relentless attack on Lesotho. Brahim Díaz scored twice in quick succession, showcasing his clinical finishing and creativity. Soufiane Rahimi converted a penalty just before the break, adding to a commanding first-half tally that also included goals from the ever-reliable Youssef En-Nesyri.
Brahim Díaz continues his magnificent Morocco form with a – ⚽️⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/jVHZuT3aRD
— 433 (@433) November 18, 2024
Second-Half Dominance
Despite the comfortable lead, Morocco didn’t ease off in the second half. Youssef En-Nesyri found the net again, while Ismael Saibari added another goal to seal the 7-0 rout. Morocco’s ability to maintain high intensity throughout the match demonstrated their depth and readiness for the challenges of AFCON 2025.
Morocco’s Campaign Highlights:
- Total Points: 18 (6 wins, 0 draws, 0 losses)
- Goals Scored: 26
- Goals Conceded: 2
- Key Performers: Brahim Díaz, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Soufiane Rahimi
Morocco’s flawless campaign not only cements their position as one of the tournament favorites but also highlights their strength as hosts. With a well-balanced squad featuring attacking firepower and defensive solidity, the Atlas Lions are poised to make a deep run in AFCON 2025.
Gabon Secure Second Place with Win Over CAR
While Morocco stole the spotlight, Gabon ensured their place in the AFCON finals as Group B runners-up with a 1-0 victory over the Central African Republic at Orlando Stadium. Guélor Kanga’s second-half penalty proved decisive in a match that tested the Panthers’ resilience.
A Hard-Fought Encounter
The CAR, already eliminated from contention, pushed hard for a win to end their campaign on a positive note. However, Gabon’s experience and composure helped them weather the storm. Kanga’s calm conversion from the penalty spot secured the three points, taking Gabon’s final tally to 10 points.
Gabon’s Campaign in Numbers:
- Total Points: 10 (3 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses)
- Goals Scored: 7
- Goals Conceded: 7
While Gabon’s qualifying campaign had its ups and downs, their ability to grind out results under pressure bodes well for their chances in Morocco. With experienced players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Guélor Kanga leading the way, Gabon will aim to make a strong impression at AFCON 2025.
Disappointment for Lesotho and CAR
The final matchday offered little solace for Lesotho and the Central African Republic, who finished third and fourth in Group B, respectively. Both teams struggled throughout the qualifiers, with only one win each to their names.
Lesotho’s Struggles
Lesotho managed a single victory against the CAR earlier in the campaign but failed to compete against the group’s stronger teams. Their inability to withstand Morocco’s relentless attack on Monday highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities.
CAR’s Winless Streak
The CAR extended their winless run to five matches, capping off a disappointing campaign. Their sole win came against Lesotho, but they failed to build on that momentum, ultimately finishing last in Group B.
Group B Final Standings
| Position | Team | Matches Played | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Morocco | 6 | 18 | +24 |
| 2 | Gabon | 6 | 10 | 0 |
| 3 | Lesotho | 6 | 4 | -15 |
| 4 | Central African Republic | 6 | 3 | -9 |
Looking Ahead: AFCON 2025 in Morocco
With Morocco and Gabon confirmed for the tournament, both teams can now focus on preparing for AFCON 2025. Morocco, as hosts, are among the favorites to lift the trophy, thanks to their dominant performances and depth in talent. Gabon, while less consistent, have shown they can rise to the occasion and will aim to make a deep run.
For Lesotho and the CAR, the campaign offered valuable lessons as they look to rebuild and improve for future competitions.
Only 3️⃣ spots left. #AFCONQ2025 pic.twitter.com/mbVgKVH942
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) November 18, 2024
A Perfect Ending for Morocco
Morocco’s perfect qualifying campaign is a testament to their quality and preparedness as they gear up to host Africa’s premier football tournament. Their emphatic 7-0 victory over Lesotho not only solidified their dominance in Group B but also sent a strong message to their rivals.
As AFCON 2025 approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting tournament featuring Africa’s top teams, rising stars, and fierce competition for continental glory. With Morocco leading the charge, the stage is set for an unforgettable spectacle in North Africa.
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