FIFA Arab Cup: Azaro sends Morocco through to semifinals

Walid Azaro’s late goal was all Morocco needed to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup with Thursday’s 1-0 victory over Syria.

The former Al Ahly striker pounced to finish from a rebound in the 79th minute after Mounir Chouiar’s long range effort was spilled by Syria goalkeeper Elias Hadaya. The Atlas Lions will face the winner of Friday’s quarterfinal clash between rivals Algeria and the United Arab Emirates.

The North Africans dominated throughout the match but came up against a stubborn defense and Hadaya, who turned in an excellent performance. Syria did well to neutralize their opponents and keep the first half scoreless while failing to create much in their attacking efforts.

After halftime, Morocco increased their intensity as Syria desperately attempted to stay in the match. The Atlas Lions came close to finding their goal early in the second half but Syria substitute Mouhamad Anez was well placed on the goal line to chest away a cross that was deflected on goal. Hadaya then denied Oussama Tannane in the 70th minute when the Umm-Salal attacker was set up by a Chouiar cross.

But eventually the Syrians caved from the pressure. Hadaya could only deflect the ball in front of his goal from Chouiar’s powerful shot and Azarou was quickest to react and fire in as Syrian defenders appealed for the offsides flag in vain.

The Asian representatives had little energy for a response after spending most of the match defending, even after a red card was issued to Morocco defender Mohamed Moufid was sent off for a rash challenge just before stoppage time.

The Atlas Lions will fancy their chances as one of the favorites to win the competition, something they last achieved at the 2012 edition. Their semifinal against either Algeria or United Arab Emirates will take place on Monday.