Morocco overcome Comoros to reach last 16 at Cup of Nations

Yaounde, January 15 (BNA): Morocco proved its great strength against Comoros in the African Cup of Nations on Friday, winning 2-0 to stay at the top of Group C and secure qualification for the round of 16 of the finals in Cameroon.

Reuters said that Salim Amal Allah scored in the 16th minute, and Zakaria Abu Khalil scored the final whistle to guarantee victory after Youssef Al-Nusairi saved a penalty kick in the 82nd minute.

The result could have been much more one-sided if Morocco took advantage of its chances as it beat the tournament’s newcomers at the Ahmedou Ahidjo Stadium.

Morocco now has six points while Comoros has yet to open an account. Gabon, with three points, and Ghana, with none, play their second game of the group on the field later on Friday.

Omallah opened the scoring with a shot at the net from close range after scoring a rebound after some frantic defense to give Morocco a well-deserved lead.

Their captain, Roman Sais, headed home from a corner of the crossbar in the 37th minute and there were two good chances for Ayoub El Kaabi after the break.

Morocco quickly picked up pace in the second half, blocking the goal at times but finding it difficult to defeat Comoros goalkeeper Salim Ben Bouena, while also missing some shining chances.

Kaabi was once again guilty of missed opportunities while the Comoros defenders were desperate to keep their star-studded opponents at bay.

Al-Nusairi, whose participation in the tournament was in doubt due to his injury with his Spanish club Seville, entered the second half in his first round in a boost to Morocco, but he saved the penalty.

But former young Dutch international Abou Khalil finally doubled the score for Morocco as he missed a goal in the last minute. Offside was initially reported but the decision was overturned after consultation with the VAR.

M