Two-times champions Morocco needed this victory to increase their chances of progressing from Group A at the African Nations Championship (CHAN)
In pleasant conditions at the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi the Atlas Lions fielded a starting eleven of players from FAR Rabat, RS Berkane, and Raja.
From early on they looked a level or two above their opponents and they dominated the first half with a range of shots and crosses.
But without producing the telling finish.
Until added time when their captain Mohamed Rabie Hrimat convincingly converted a headed pass.
It was certainly merited, and as usual, a good time to score.
The deflated Zambians remained on the pitch for a post mortem, needing much to do to change the outcome.
They had managed some excellent long throws from Mathews Banda, a few efforts on goal, and some heroic defending but not much else.
However, their spirit plus some encouragement from the stands, kept them going and they did get the ball in the net only for the goal to be disallowed for a foul.
That was just after the hour, and it was a turning point in the match as Morocco went up the other end and netted their second from striker Oussama Lamlioui.
Although the Copper Bullets (under ex-Chelsea coach Avram Grant) did force in a consolation, it didn’t change the course of the match.
With players getting more desperate various yellow cards were shown by the Senegal referee before substitute Sabir Bougrine sealed the Maroc victory in the closing minutes.
It was a reasonable scoreline given the dominance and quality of the Moroccan side and sets them up for a probable shootout with DR Congo for a place in the knockout phase.
Report – John Bethell
