Manchester United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has made a positive start to the Africa Cup of Nations, by helping Morocco to earn a 3-0 win over 10-man Tanzania.
The Reds’ loan signing from Fiorentina started the Group F match in San-Pedro and it’s fair to say the tournament favourites will be pleased with their opening fixture.
The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists are the highest-ranked nation at AFCON – currently 13th in FIFA’s standings – and our man Amrabat is considered a vital member of their squad.
The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists are the highest-ranked nation at AFCON – currently 13th in FIFA’s standings – and our man Amrabat is considered a vital member of their squad.
Morocco captain Romain Saiss opened the scoring in the first half, by slotting home from inside the area after Tanzania goalkeeper Aisha Manula fumbled a free-kick.
Tanzania's hopes of causing an upset against one of the tournament favourites were hampered when Novatus Miroshi was sent off, 20 minutes from time.
Azzedine Ounahi doubled the Atlas Lions' advantage by playing a one-two with Amine Adli and arrowing a strike into the bottom corner.
Tanzania's hopes of causing an upset against one of the tournament favourites were hampered when Novatus Miroshi was sent off, 20 minutes from time.
Azzedine Ounahi doubled the Atlas Lions' advantage by playing a one-two with Amine Adli and arrowing a strike into the bottom corner.
Amrabat completed the game and patrolled the centre of the park.
He also played his part in Morocco's third goal in the 80th minute by retrieving the ball with a brilliant tackle as Tanzania tried to break. Youssef En-Nesyri scored it with a fine finish from Achraf Hakimi's cross.
Morocco can now begin preparations for their matchday two encounter with DR Congo on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 14:00 GMT.