Morocco 2-1 Malawi: Hakimi’s Sculpture Ends Flames’ fairytale

By Ngome Michael

Morrocco came from behind to put an end to Malawi’s fairytale AFCON campaign at the round of 16 in Yaoundé.

The Flames couldn’t keep a 7minute first half goal from all time top scorer, Hellings Gabadinho Muhango as the North Africans would go level just before the break.

The Orlando Pirates man had another chance to put his Nation ahead but, watched his shot go wide from beautiful counter-attack.

Malawi were forced to play in their own third after going ahead with goalkeeper, Charles Thom producing multiple excellent saves from Soufaine Boufal, Youssef En-Nesyri and the most stunning from Achraf Hakimi’s wonderful set-piece.

En-Nesyri just before halftime leaped above the Malawian defenders to finally beat Thom with a header. 1-1 as both sides marched in to tunnel.

Morrocco continued their dorminance upon resumption with Malawi managing to contain a side that showed lots of quality under the lights of Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium.

Achraf Hakimi with 20 minutes left to spare struck another well curled free kick that went straight into the top corner.

The Atlas felt they should have been awarded a Penalty when the ball hit the hand of retreating Malawi defender, Dennis Chembezi but the Ugandan match official waved away calls for a VAR check.

Malawi featured in their first ever AFCON K.O stage game and succeeded in giving Morrocco tough times after qualifying as best third in Group B.

Morocco, full of quality will face the winner between Ivory Coast and Egypt at the Japoma Sport Complex.