Ayoub El Kaabi delivered a moment of individual brilliance on Monday evening as Morocco claimed a 1-0 victory over Benin in an international friendly held in Fez.
The Olympiakos forward scored the only goal of the match in breathtaking fashion just minutes before half-time. Latching onto a long diagonal pass from defender Adam Masina, El Kaabi positioned himself expertly before executing a perfectly timed bicycle kick, sending the ball soaring past Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou, who could do little more than watch it sail into the net.
The goal, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, quickly gained viral attention, with fans and pundits alike praising the technique, precision, and audacity behind the finish.
It was a goal worthy of any stage and reaffirmed the 31-year-old’s status as one of Morocco’s most reliable forwards.
El Kaabi’s strike proved to be the difference in an otherwise subdued contest. Morocco, fielding a mixed squad amid a packed international calendar and coming off a victory over Tunisia earlier in the week, controlled the tempo but struggled to convert possession into further goals.
Nevertheless, the Atlas Lions maintained composure and closed out the match without major incident to secure back-to-back wins.
Despite the friendly nature of the fixture, the performance carried importance for head coach Walid Regragui as he continues to assess his squad ahead of more competitive challenges.
With World Cup qualifiers resuming in September, the Moroccan camp used the June window to evaluate depth and give key players much-needed rest following a demanding club season.
El Kaabi’s goal was a highlight in a match otherwise characterized by tactical discipline and measured play. The Moroccan backline remained organised throughout, nullifying Benin’s attempts to break forward. Benin, while spirited, lacked the cutting edge in the final third and rarely troubled Morocco’s defence.
Regragui, speaking after the match, praised his team for their focus and highlighted the importance of ending the international break on a high note.
While admitting the team did not hit top gear, he expressed satisfaction with the effort and the ability to secure a result despite rotations and fatigue.
With Monday’s win, Morocco conclude their summer fixtures with a clean sweep, reinforcing their momentum heading into the next phase of World Cup qualification.
The Atlas Lions will reconvene in September, where the intensity will rise as they seek to solidify their place among Africa’s elite ahead of the 2026 tournament.
El Kaabi, who has enjoyed a strong season with Greek club Olympiakos, will no doubt be central to Morocco’s plans. His latest goal not only added to his international tally but also served as a reminder of his flair and finishing prowess, particularly in crucial moments.
As the squad breaks for summer, the image of El Kaabi’s overhead strike under the lights in Fez will linger—a flash of brilliance that capped Morocco’s June window in style.
El Kaabi what a goal!
Morocco gets the lead 1-0pic.twitter.com/ELRfjva4nh
— Goals Xtra (@GoalsXtra) June 9, 2025
