Morocco has secured their first-ever medal in the men’s Olympic football tournament after walloping North African neighbour Egypt 6-0 in Nantes to bag the bronze medal. Morocco recorded the biggest win of the tournament on Thursday at the :Stade de la Beaujoire – Louis Fonteneau as 27,391spectators were entertained.
Prior to the third place match, history was destined to be made as both teams have never clinch football medal in the history of the Olympic Games. Egypt started strong and created a golden opportunity when the unmarked Osama Faisal charged in at the far post. However, his powerful header was denied by a brilliant save from Munir. That save proved to be a pivotal moment midway through the first half, setting the stage for Morocco to take the lead. They did so in style, with Abde Ezzalzouli finding space in the area and curling a shot into the top right corner.
It was surprising to see a Morocco goal not scored by Soufiane Rahimi, who was in the race for the golden boot. But just two minutes and 40 seconds later, Rahimi made his mark, rising above the defense to head home Ezzalzouli’s perfect cross. Egypt managed to survive the rest of the half without further damage, but their lack of attacking intent made a comeback after the break seem unlikely.
Any faint hopes of an Egyptian miracle were dashed within 10 minutes of the second half, as Bilal El Khannouss made a lung-busting run and finished with a sublime effort into the bottom corner. Rahimi still chasing the golden boot showed no signs of mercy by slotting past Hamza Alaa to score his eighth goal of the tournament.
With the golden boot essentially secured, Rahimi turned provider shortly after, setting up Ahmed Atef for a close-range finish. The Lions saved their best for last, as star player Achraf Hakimi delivered a moment of magic, sending a 30-yard free-kick into the top corner. The stunning goal put the finishing touch on what will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest days in Morocco’s Olympic football history.
