The 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, 4th edition of the tournament, ended in a gripping fashion as Morocco claimed the championship title.
In an intense final match held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat on Saturday, July 8, 2023, Morocco emerged victorious by defeating defending champions Egypt with a score of 2-1 in extra time.
The thrilling encounter saw Mahmoud Saber, star player for Egypt, receiving a red card in the 35th minute of the first half, reducing his team to ten players.
Despite the setback, Saber had already made an impact by scoring the opening goal for Egypt in the 9th minute.
Morocco’s Yanis Begraoui swiftly equalized in the 37th minute, setting the stage for an exhilarating battle.
The score remained tied at 1-1 until the end of regulation time, but the heightened emotions on the field resulted in multiple warnings from the referee.
In the 107th minute of extra time, Oussama Tanghalline became the hero for Morocco by netting the winning goal, assisted by Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, the tournament’s top scorer.
This decisive goal secured Morocco’s triumph and crowned them as the champions of the 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations.
Good morning, Atlas Lions 🦁🇲🇦🥳#TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 pic.twitter.com/HIOqzr9fU3
— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) July 9, 2023
Egypt’s captain, Ibrahim Adel, received the prestigious Best Player of the Tournament award for his exceptional performances throughout the championship.
Adel’s leadership and skills greatly contributed to his team’s success.
Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, a talented winger from FC Barcelona in Spain, claimed the Top Scorers Award and the Umbro Gold Boot Award.
Ezzalzouli’s impressive tally of three goals showcased his outstanding abilities on the field.
Egypt’s goalkeeper, Hamza Alaa, was honored with the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament accolade.
Alaa demonstrated remarkable agility and technical prowess, remaining unbeaten until the final match where he conceded two goals.
In recognition of their exemplary sportsmanship and fair play, Guinea, the fourth-placed team in the tournament, received the Fair Play Award.
The 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations will be remembered as a thrilling competition that showcased the immense talent and passion for football in Africa.
Congratulations to Morocco for their well-deserved victory, and kudos to all the teams for their incredible performances throughout the tournament.
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