Avram Grant's Zambia bowed out of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations on a heartbreaking note, falling 1-0 to Morocco despite putting up their best performance of the tournament. Hakim Ziyech's first-half strike condemned the Chipolopolo to a third consecutive group-stage exit, extending their winless streak at the continental showpiece to 12 years. The 2012 champions entered the final Group F clash needing a win to secure a last-16 spot. They responded with a spirited second-half display, peppering the Moroccan goal with attacking intent. However, their hopes were dashed by a combination of resolute defending and a touch of misfortune in front of goal. While the result ends Zambia's African adventure for another year, there are significant positives to take away. After missing three editions of the tournament in the last eight years, qualification itself was a triumph. A young Zambia, with many players experiencing their first senior tournament, played with conviction and learned valuable lessons. Youngster Miguel Changa Chaiwa impressed in holding midfield alongside Emmanuel Banda, even as the team struggled to create clear-cut chances. Morocco, meanwhile, finish top of the group with seven points, while DR Congo claim third with three. Zambia and Tanzania, despite both scoring two points, head home in third and fourth place respectively.