CHAN hosts Morocco kicked off their campaign with an easy 4-0 win over under dogs Mauritania at the Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca.
Mauritania held on to a 0-0 draw in the first half but things fell apart after the introduction of Karamoko Moussa Traore in the 61st minute. A brace from Ayoub El Kaabi and one each from Acharaf Benchaeki, all after the 66th minute ensured Morocco go top of Group A.
After a dominant attacking display from the hosts, Ayoub El Kaabi converted El Haddad’s through ball in 66th minute to give wasteful Morocco the lead. Wydad Atheletic forward Ismail El Haddad doubled it in the 72nd minute, eight before El Kaabi completed his brace.
Super-sub Benchaeki took advantage of Mauritania’s defense that had long given up to complete the goal rout giving Morocco a well deserved commanding lead of Group A.
Morocco’s superiority was clear from the start but the visiting keeper Souleymane Brahim made a series of heroic saves to keep his side in the game. They enjoyed a 65% percent ball possession with 28 shots compared to Mauritania’s 2 but still had to wait for the 66th minute to take the lead.
Morocco who beat Egypt to qualify to a qualification spot is making its third consecutive appearance. After stepping in to replace Kenya as hosts, they are under pressure from the home fans to better their Rwanda 2016 performance where they were knocked out in the group stages.
On the other hand, Mauritania who beat Liberia 3-2 on aggregate to qualify is looking for its first win ever at CHAN after losing all the three games in the side’s sole former appearance.
The 2014 CHAN (where the were knocked out in the group stages) is to-date Mauritania’s only appearance at a major FIFA football competition.
Morocco will take on Guinea while Mauritania faces off with Sudan in the next round on Wednesday.
Morocco Squad.
Anas Zniti,Nayef Aguerd, Zakaria Hadraf, Salaheddine Saidi, Ayoub el Kaabi, Ismail El Haddad, Badr Benoun, Mohammed Nahiri, Abedelilah Hafidi, El Mefdi BArrhma, Abdeljalil Jbira.
Mauritania Squad.
Uleimane Brahim, Mohammed Wade, Sidi Mohammed, Lembrabott El Hacen, Moullayeahmed Khalil, Oumar Mangane, Moussa Baghayoko, Elycheikh Samba, Samba Moussa.
Featured Photo: cafoline
