Morocco delivered a composed and clinical performance to defeat Zambia 3–1 at the Nyayo National Stadium, sealing the Chipolopolo’s elimination from the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. The result leaves Zambia bottom of Group A with three defeats from three matches, rendering their final group fixture against Kenya on Sunday a mere formality.

From the outset, the Atlas Lions looked sharper, more organized, and more aggressive in their pressing. They quickly established control of the ball, pushing Zambia deep into their own half and probing for openings through the flanks. The early exchanges were lively, with both sides showing intent, but Morocco’s midfield dominance soon began to tilt the contest decisively in their favour.

The first half saw Morocco dictate tempo and force Zambia into constant defensive work. The Chipolopolo struggled to build sustained possession, repeatedly losing the ball in their own half under high pressure. Morocco’s first major chance came in the 12th minute when a well-worked free-kick created chaos in the box, but the Zambian defence, helped by their alert goalkeeper, scrambled the ball off the line.

Zambia’s attempts to push forward were sporadic and quickly snuffed out, while Morocco’s offensive persistence finally paid off in stoppage time before the interval. In the 47th minute, a pinpoint cross to the far post found Youssef Mehri, whose clever first-time pass set up Mohamed Hrimat. The midfielder kept his composure to slot the ball home with his right foot, sending the crowd into raptures and giving the Atlas Lions a deserved 1–0 lead at the break.

The second half began with Zambia making two substitutions; Andrew Phiri and Charles Zulu came on in an effort to inject fresh energy. Initially, it was Morocco who came out stronger, pressing high and seeking to double their lead. But Zambia soon grew into the game, their substitutions having an impact. They created two promising chances in the 61st minute, both from mid-range efforts that tested the Moroccan goalkeeper, who responded with excellent saves.

Just as Zambia were enjoying their best spell, Morocco struck a decisive blow. In the 69th minute, Oussama Lamlloui finished off a slick team move to make it 2–0, punishing the Chipolopolo for leaving space at the back.

However, Zambia responded almost immediately. In the 73rd minute, Andrew Phiri pounced to score, sparking wild celebrations on the Zambian bench and giving them a glimmer of hope. The goal briefly lifted their tempo, and they pushed forward in search of an equaliser.

Morocco, sensing danger, reshaped their formation into a defensive 5-4-1 to absorb pressure. Zambia enjoyed more of the ball late on but lacked the creativity and penetration to seriously trouble the Atlas Lions. The contest was finally put to bed deep into stoppage time when Sabir Bougrine smashed in Morocco’s third goal, sealing a 3–1 victory.

For Morocco, the win further boosts their confidence heading into the knockout stages, as they combined control with clinical finishing. For Zambia, the loss confirmed a disappointing CHAN campaign; three matches, three defeats, and early elimination. Their meeting with Kenya will now be about salvaging pride rather than chasing qualification.