Morocco have won the 2012 Arab Nations Cup held in Saudi Arabia after defeating fellow North African team Libya 3-1 on penalties in Friday’s final.
Led by Belgian coach Eric Gerets, who is winning his first title with the outfit, the Atlas Lions were held to a 1-1 draw by the Mediterranean Knights across extra time.
FUS de Rabat midfielder Brahim El Bahri opened the scoring for Morocco early in the fifth minute after being assisted by the tournament’s top scorer Yassine Salhi of Raja Casablanca.
And when victory seemed destined for the Moroccans, Libya pulled level in the 87th minute through a strike delivered by Al-Ahly Benghazi 22-year-old midfielder Faisal Al Badri, bringing to mind the suspense that prevailed during both sides’ group clash that ended goalless last week.
The scoreline remained unaltered after extra time, with Libya fluffing three of their spot kicks while Benlamalem wrapped up Morocco’s third to win their first Arab Nations Cup.
The Moroccan football federation (FRMF) has promised bonuses of €160,000 (R1.7 m) for each player in case of final victory.
The winner of the tournament will receive $1 million (R 8m) as prize money, while the runner-up will go home with $600,000 (R 4.9m). The third placed team will get $300,000 (R 2.4m) and $200,000 (R 1.6m) will go to each of the other participating teams.
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