Round of 16: The 3 possible scenarios for Morocco’s opponent in Rabat

The Moroccan technical staff are reaching for their calculators. Buoyed by their demonstration against Zambia (3-0) and the return to form of Achraf Hakimi, the Moroccans are approaching this phase with serenity. However, the identity of the opponent could change the complexion of the match.

Scenario 1: Benin (Group D), the most "challenging" option
This is the most likely and probably the toughest opponent among the current third-placed teams. With 3 points in two matches, Benin is currently third behind the heavyweights Senegal and DR Congo (4 points each). If the hierarchy is respected on the final matchday, the Beninese Cheetahs could secure their ticket as the best third-placed team. This would be a real physical test for Morocco against a team known for its low block and resilience.

Scenario 2: Sudan (Group E), the smell of the Arab derby
In Group E, Algeria dominates (6 points), leaving the fight for second place between Burkina Faso and Sudan (3 points each). If Burkina Faso prevails on the final matchday, Sudan would slide into third place with a respectable tally of 3 points. A Morocco-Sudan confrontation would offer a classic Arab derby: tactical, closed, but where the technical superiority of Brahim Diaz’s teammates should logically make the difference.

Scenario 3: Tanzania or Uganda (Group C), the royal path?
This is the ideal scenario on paper. In Group C, dominated by Nigeria (6 pts) and Tunisia (3 pts), the third and fourth places are occupied by Tanzania and Uganda with only 1 point each. For one of them to qualify and face Morocco, a favorable set of circumstances and a win on the final matchday would be required. If Morocco draws the 3rd from Group C, they would be ultra-favorites against a team that has struggled to make it out of the group stage.

Verdict: The Lions ready for anything, the momentum is Moroccan. With an iron defense (1 goal conceded on a penalty), an Ayoub El Kaabi in a state of grace and a white-hot Rabat crowd, Morocco seems armed to overcome the obstacle. While Benin represents the most serious athletic challenge, the growth observed on Monday evening suggests that the Atlas Lions have the keys to unlock any lock.