In a fiery atmosphere at the Fès Sports Complex, the Atlas Lions delivered a commanding 2-0 win over Tunisia on Friday evening in a high-intensity friendly that proved to be much more than just a warm-up match—it was a true display of character, talent, and cohesion.
This well-earned triumph, secured with clarity and patience against a tough Tunisian side, bore the marks of two moments of brilliance: Achraf Hakimi’s strike in the 80th minute and Ayoub El Kaabi’s clinical finish in stoppage time (90+3). These two flashes of genius lit up a tense encounter in which Morocco demonstrated tactical maturity and composure, even in the absence of several key players.
Recently reopened following major renovation works, the Fès stadium could not have hoped for a more fitting inauguration. In front of a sold-out crowd and amidst electric fervor, Hakimi and his teammates offered a performance full of promise. This North African derby, always a heated affair, was a real battle of physical and mental strength. The Tunisians came out aggressively, attempting to dictate the pace early on, but ran into a well-structured Moroccan defense and a composed Yassine Bounou between the posts.
Missing key figures such as Brahim Diaz, Nayef Aguerd, and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, head coach Walid Regragui crafted a reshuffled starting eleven, giving several determined players the opportunity to shine. The central defensive pairing of El Yamiq and Massina, supported by Belaamri and a brilliant Hakimi, stood strong against Tunisia’s advances.
Despite a few missed chances in the first half, Morocco never lost faith. The second half saw the introductions of Sofiane Rahimi and Ayoub El Kaabi, injecting fresh energy into the attacking line. Sharper and more incisive, the Moroccan side began to wear down Tunisia’s defense, and eventually found the breakthrough when Hakimi, capitalizing on a well-executed corner, fired home the opener. In added time, El Kaabi sealed the win with a composed left-footed finish from the edge of the box.
This victory against a traditionally strong opponent is far from trivial. It reinforces the notion that the Atlas Lions—semi-finalists at the last World Cup—are on a steady upward trajectory under Regragui’s leadership, moving confidently toward the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, to be hosted on home soil. The team’s cohesion, squad depth, and burning ambition were evident in every play.
The next friendly, scheduled for June 9 against Benin, will offer another opportunity to fine-tune strategies. But one thing is clear: Morocco, powered by talent, discipline, and an extraordinary fan base, is marching forward with ambition and determination toward continental glory. And tonight in Fès, the Lions roared—loud and clear.
Abderrazzak Boussaid / Le7tv