Morocco forward Ayoub El Kaabi netted a double and midfield maestro Brahim Diaz added another as the Africa Cup of Nations hosts turned in a convincing performance in outclassing Zambia 3-0 on Monday to top Group A.
El Kaabi powered home an early headed goal and then scored with one of his trademark bicycle kicks while Diaz netted for the third successive game as Morocco swept their opponents aside to finish on seven points ahead of second placed Mali on three.
After a timid start to the tournament, with a nervy opening game win over tiny Comoros and then an uninspiring 1-1 draw with Mali on Friday, Morocco finally looked like the favourites that many have made them for the 24-team tournament.
Defeat meant Zambia were eliminated, as they finished bottom of the group with two points.
Afghanistan seal 2027 World Cup berth, West Indies to go through qualifiers again
Rain in Montreal forces Canadian Open to reschedule men's quarter-finals
Swiatek cruises past Shnaider to reach Canadian Open semi-finals
UEFA, AFC, CONCACAF hit out at Infantino over World Cup stake sale
Malawi book first-ever place at Women's World Cup
