Arab Cup 2025: After a nail-biting finish, Morocco claims its second historic title

The men of Tarik Sektioui had to dig deep to clinch this second title in the competition’s history. The evening had started on a high note with Oussama Tannane’s early opening goal. As early as the 4th minute, the midfielder surprised the opposing defense with a long-range shot, suggesting that the Moroccans would control the game against the team led by their compatriot Jamal Sellami.

But the "Nashama" showed exemplary resilience. After a first half marked by the decisive saves of Moroccan goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid, Jordan turned the tide in the second half. Jordan first equalized at the start of the second half, before taking the lead from the penalty spot an hour into the game (66th minute).

Trailing 2-1 and on the brink of disaster, the Moroccans threw everything they had into the battle. The relief came from Abderrazak Hamdallah. The striker snatched the equalizer in the dying moments of the 87th minute, sending the two teams into extra time.

The additional thirty minutes were breathtaking. Saved by the video assistant referee (VAR) which canceled a third Jordanian goal for a handball, the Lions ultimately had the last word. In the 100th minute, the inevitable Hamdallah scored his brace, sealing the final score at 3-2. A hard-fought victory that allows Morocco to remain at the top of the Arab world, just days before hosting Africa for its CAN.

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