Yassine Bounou praises Badou Zaki for helping develop his penalty-saving ability

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has credited former Atlas Lions shot-stopper Badou Zaki for helping him develop his penalty-saving technique after producing a crucial stop in their 5-1 victory over Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The Al Hilal goalkeeper denied Youssouf Oumarou from the penalty spot shortly before half-time at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Friday, preventing Niger from drawing level at 2-2.

Bounou initially saved Oumarou’s effort before reacting quickly to keep out the rebound, helping Morocco maintain their advantage as they went on to secure a convincing victory.

Speaking after the match, the 35-year-old revealed that advice from Zaki during his early days at Wydad Casablanca had influenced his approach to saving penalties.

“When I was at Wydad, Badou Zaki advised me to save penalties this way,” Bounou said.

“I only started trying it recently, so the credit goes to him,” he added.

Bounou reaches 100 Morocco appearances

The match also marked a significant milestone for Bounou, who made his 100th appearance for Morocco.

The goalkeeper expressed his delight at reaching the landmark, particularly in Casablanca, where he began his professional career.

“It’s a great feeling to play your 100th match with the national team, especially here in Casablanca,” he said.

Bounou also thanked the supporters for their encouragement and expressed hope that Morocco would continue delivering positive results.

Since making his international debut in 2013, the goalkeeper has established himself as one of the Atlas Lions’ most experienced players, playing an important role in their campaigns at major international tournaments, including their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Morocco maintain perfect AFCON qualifying record

Morocco’s victory over Niger extended their winning start to the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, taking their points tally to nine from three matches.

Yassir Zabiri opened the scoring before Achraf Hakimi scored twice, with Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub Oufkir also finding the net in the 5-1 victory.

The result keeps Mohamed Ouahbi’s side at the top of Group A as they continue their pursuit of qualification for the tournament.

Morocco will face Niger again on Tuesday, November 17, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 Moroccan time.