RABAT: The rankings proved spot on as Africa’s top two teams advanced to this weekend’s Cup of Nations final, with Morocco and Senegal setting up a heavyweight clash.
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But while Senegal overcame Egypt 1-0 in 90 minutes in Tangier on Wednesday, Morocco needed a penalty shootout before disposing of Nigeria after a goalless draw in Rabat to book their place in Sunday’s decider.
The Cup of Nations has regularly produced surprises and upsets with previous editions having seen many pre-tournament favorites falter, but this time the two best teams will contest the final as a strong field in Morocco has been progressively whittled down, with the rankings proving accurate for once.
Morocco, whose only Cup of Nations triumph came half a century ago, are one of several previous underachievers, notably in recent years when the quality of their squad suggested they could win the trophy, but they are now on the cusp of success.
