Morocco thrash Niger 5-1 to strengthen Africa Cup of Nations qualification bid

Morocco continued their unbeaten-looking march towards the Africa Cup of Nations with a 5-1 victory over Niger in Friday’s qualifying match.

The Atlas Lions made a fast start and were ahead after only four minutes when Yasser Zoubiri finished a well-worked move to give coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s side the lead.

Morocco maintained the pressure, with Brahim Diaz, Bilal El Khannouss and Abde Ezzalzouli causing problems for the Niger defence with their movement and individual skill.

Captain Achraf Hakimi doubled the advantage in the 27th minute. The full-back advanced down the right before unleashing a powerful shot which the Niger goalkeeper could not keep out.

Niger responded before half-time as Mohamed Abdulrahman took advantage of a defensive error to reduce the deficit in the 41st minute.

However, Morocco restored their two-goal lead deep into first-half stoppage time when Hakimi struck again following a rapid counter-attack. The goal gave the hosts a 3-1 advantage at the interval and left Niger facing a difficult second half.

Niger coach made two changes after the break, bringing on Mohamed Amadou Sabo and Ali Mohamed Al-Faz for Abdul Khairou Amoustafa and Oumarou Aliou Youssouf.

Morocco remained in control, with Nayef Aguerd, Issa Diop and Noussair Mazraoui helping to contain Niger’s attacks while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou dealt with the threat behind them.

Youssef En-Nesyri added Morocco’s fourth goal in the 77th minute. He rose inside the penalty area to meet a precise cross and directed a powerful header into the net, prompting further celebrations among the home supporters.

The match also featured a number of bookings. El Khannouss was cautioned in the first half, while Amoustafa and Youssouf also received yellow cards, with the contest becoming more competitive during some periods.

The result leaves Morocco top of their qualifying group with nine goals, described as a perfect record in the source account, and strengthens their position in the race for a place at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Hakimi was the standout performer, scoring twice and providing a decisive attacking threat from right-back. His display underlined his importance to Morocco beyond his defensive duties.

Zoubiri was another of the night’s notable figures after opening the scoring early. His performance justified the faith shown in him by Ouahbi and marked him out as one of the players Morocco’s supporters will look to in the near future.

The victory was celebrated by the Moroccan fans at the final whistle as the Atlas Lions continued their push towards the tournament.