Morocco advances to Arab Cup semi-finals after victory over Syria

The Moroccan national reserve team has triumphantly advanced to the semi-finals of the Arab Cup, clinching a narrow 1-0 victory against Syria in a match held at the iconic Khalifa International Stadium.

In a setback during the 24th minute, striker Tarik Tissoudali had to exit the field due to an injury, paving the way for Walid Azaro to step in. Despite the Atlas Lions asserting their dominance throughout the first half, the teams headed into the break locked in a goalless draw.

As the second half kicked off, the Moroccan squad intensified their pressure on the Syrian defense, while Syria remained entrenched in a defensive posture. The deadlock was finally broken in the 78th minute when Walid Azaro seized an opportunity, netting the ball after a rebound from the goalkeeper to score the decisive goal.

Walid Azaro opens the scoring for the Moroccan team#كأس_العرب | #كأس_العرب2025#FIFAArabCup | #ArabCup2025
pic.twitter.com/QhhHaeNHCp

— FIFA Arab Cup ™ (@_90TM) December 11, 2025

In a dramatic turn of events during the closing moments of regular time, the referee consulted VAR to review an incident involving player Mufeed, resulting in a red card. The match concluded with Morocco securing a hard-fought victory.

Looking ahead, the Moroccan team is set to face off against the winner of tomorrow's clash between Algeria and the United Arab Emirates in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, the other semi-final will be contested by the victors of the Saudi Arabia vs. Palestine and Jordan vs. Iraq matches.