In a dramatic turn of events at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), host Ivory Coast managed to secure a spot in the last 16 despite firing its coach earlier in the day.
The host nation’s hopes were kept alive by Morocco’s 1-0 victory over Zambia in Group F on Wednesday, ensuring Ivory Coast finished as the fourth-best third-place team and qualified for the knockout stage.
Zambia’s defeat left the Copper Bullets with two points after three games, just one point fewer than Ivory Coast. The latter failed to secure its own progress after a disappointing 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea in its final group game on Monday.
Morocco’s triumph triggered joyous celebrations in Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s largest city, with fireworks, street cheering, and fans honking their car horns. The Alassane Ouattara bridge was illuminated in red and green, the colors of the Moroccan flag.
Morocco’s captain, Hakim Ziyech, emerged as a local hero by scoring the only goal of the day. He capitalized on Lawrence Mulenga’s save from Ayoub El Kaabi’s effort in the 37th minute. The goal sparked celebrations among the Ivorian fans and across the country, providing a lifeline for Ivory Coast.
Despite a nervy game, with Zambia pressing for an equaliser that could have meant elimination for the hosts, Morocco held on to secure the win. The late chances for Morocco were denied by Mulenga, keeping the suspense alive until the final whistle.
Notably, Ivory Coast had fired coach Jean-Louis Gasset earlier on the same day due to their disappointing performance. However, with this unexpected qualification, the team now has renewed hope as they aim to progress further in the tournament.
Morocco finished at the top of Group F with seven points, four more than Congo, who also secured a spot in the last 16. Unfortunately, Zambia and Tanzania, both with two points each, were eliminated from the competition. The 2023 AFCON continues to deliver surprises and intense moments as teams advance to the knockout stage.