AFCON 2021: A stunning Achraf Hakimi free-kick seals Morocco’s spot in the final 8
Morocco cemented their spot in the last 8 in the African Cup of Nations after defeating Malawi 2-1, thanks to goals from Youssef En-Nesyri and Achraf Hakimi.
Game 6 of AFCON 2021 pitted unbeaten Group C winners Morocco against Group B third placed finishers Malawi who had a win, a draw and a loss in their three group matches. Malawi were playing their knockout round for the first time after only their third appearance at the African Cup of Nations.
It was the underdogs who struck early through a sensational strike by Gabadinho Mhango. It was a thunderous strike and one that would surely be a contender for goal of the tournament.
Rocked by that early strike, Morocco looked to draw level by an Achraf Hakimi free-kick, but a fine save from Thom denied him. A few minutes later they came even closer, Roman Saiss’ flick hit under the crossbar from six yards out.
The Atlas Lions were relentless in their attacking plan as they besieged the Malawi area. It was only a matter of time before the Malawian goal would be breached and it took a deep cross and a towering header by Youssef En-Nesyri to put Morocco back on level terms at halftime.
It was a less energetic second half but a quality freekick by Achraf Hakimi ensured the deadlock was broken in the 70th minute.
Both sides made a slew of substitutions and Morocco did create a final chance at the stroke of full-time but missed the target. That mattered little as the Atlas Lions booked their place in the last 8 for the eight time in their history at the African showpiece.
Truth be told I was hoping Malawi would cause an upset….but that strike by Gabadinho was sublime….
Didn’t see it coming