Morocco has captured the Arab Cup with a stunning 3-2 victory over Jordan, following a pulsating and unpredictable final at Qatar’s Lusail Stadium on Thursday night. The match unfolded as a rollercoaster of emotions, with both sides showcasing tactical brilliance, incredible skill, and a refusal to back down under pressure.
The Moroccan side wasted no time asserting their dominance. In the fourth minute, Tannane delivered a spectacular long-range strike from 35 yards, sending the ball soaring into the net and giving Morocco an early lead. Jordan responded aggressively but struggled to breach the Moroccan defence. Eight minutes later, Karim El Berkawi’s powerful shot was brilliantly parried by Jordan’s goalkeeper, keeping the scoreboard tilted in Morocco’s favour.
Jordan gradually grew into the game, creating their first major opportunity in the 33rd minute. Husam Abu Al Dahab’s header tested Moroccan goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid, who made a crucial save. The deadlock was finally broken shortly after halftime when Jordan equalised. From a corner, Mohannad Abu Taher delivered an exceptional cross, allowing Al Owan to head the ball past the goalkeeper with precision.
The drama escalated in the 68th minute when Jordan were awarded a penalty after VAR review confirmed Ashraf El Mahdioui’s handball inside the box. Al Owan kept his composure to convert, giving Jordan a 2-1 lead. Morocco, however, demonstrated resilience. In the 87th minute, Abder Razzaq capitalised on a fortunate rebound, netting a goal to make it 2-2 and pushing the match into extra time.
Extra time was a showcase of Moroccan determination. In the 100th minute, from a corner, Marwane Saadane’s header created the perfect opportunity for Abder Razzaq to score the decisive goal, securing Morocco’s triumph. The stadium erupted as the Moroccan team celebrated their second Arab Cup title, having first lifted the trophy in 2012.
This landmark victory will serve as a major morale boost for Morocco as they gear up for the Africa Cup of Nations next week. Fans and pundits alike praised the Moroccan team’s tactical maturity, their attacking prowess, and their ability to stay composed under intense pressure. The Arab Cup final proved once again that Moroccan football continues to shine on the regional stage, blending flair, determination, and strategic brilliance in a match for the ages.