Morocco began their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Tanzania on Wednesday. Goals from Romain Saiss, Azz-Eddine Ounahi, and Youssef En Nesyri ensured the Atlas Lions made a winning start to the tournament as they target lifting the trophy for the second time in their history.
The first half saw Morocco dominate but have just Saiss’ 30th-minute strike, which came from a rebound after goalkeeper Aishi Manula had initially saved Hakim Ziyech’s free-kick, to show for it. Ziyech was influential down the right and En Nesyri headed over in Morocco’s other main opening half-chance.
Tanzania’s physical approach saw them reduced to 10 men with 20 minutes remaining when Novatus Miroshi received a second yellow card. Morocco quickly made the extra man count as substitute Amine Adli set up Ounahi to slot home soon after. En Nesyri then wrapped up the win after being teed up by Ounahi as Morocco’s quality shone through.
The result leaves Morocco top of Group F ahead of their clash with Comoros on Friday. Tanzania faces an uphill battle to progress from the group in their remaining matches.
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