Hosts Morocco lit up the Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding 3–0 victory over Zambia, sealing top spot in Group A and advancing to the Round of 16 unbeaten.

Ayoub El Kaabi was the star of the night, scoring twice—including a spectacular bicycle kick—while Brahim Díaz continued his hot streak, becoming the first Moroccan since 1976 to score in all three group games. Returning from injury, Achraf Hakimi made his tournament debut off the bench and nearly added a fourth with a curling effort.

Morocco’s dominance followed earlier nervy results (1–0 vs Comoros, 1–1 vs Mali), cementing their status as title contenders. Mali drew 0–0 with Comoros to progress as runners-up, while Zambia and Comoros exited the competition.

In Marrakech, South Africa clinched a dramatic 3–2 win over Zimbabwe to secure second place in Group B. Goals from Tshepang Moremi and Lyle Foster were joined by a late penalty from Oswin Appollis, while Zimbabwe responded through Tawanda Maswanhise and an Aubrey Modiba own goal.

Meanwhile, Egypt rested stars including Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush in a goalless draw with Angola, finishing top of Group B. Angola, with two points, await a best third-place verdict.

With knockout berths filling quickly, the tournament is intensifying as the Atlas Lions and Bafana Bafana join the last-16 lineup.