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Berkaoui's Arab Cup Night: Morocco's Hot Moment Amid Injury Woes

2 December 2025

Berkaoui's Arab Cup Night: Morocco's Hot Moment Amid Injury Woes
Berkaoui nets a landmark Morocco goal as injuries challenge the squad

Key moments

Morocco's Karim Berkaoui, the UAE-based forward for Al-Dhafra, delivered a standout performance among the Atlas Lions currently taking part in the Arab Cup, turning heads with his pace and finishing touch.

Berkaoui netted Morocco's third against Comoros in the opening round, becoming the first Atlas Lion to score in two consecutive editions of the tournament, a rare bit of consistency in a tournament known for surprises.

He had previously found the net in the previous edition's group-stage victory over Saudi Arabia, contributing to Morocco's group-stage success in that edition as well.

Injury updates

In related news, Tarik Saktoui, the Moroccan national team coach for the tournament, was dealt a blow with the news of Hamza Hanouri's ankle injury.

According to sources close to the squad, Hanouri will likely miss the remainder of the tournament, pending the official medical assessment.

Morocco's camp has also been dealing with a string of injuries, as Ashraf Ben Cherki of Al Ahly continued training while nursing a hamstring issue and facing a roughly two-week layoff; Youssef Mehri of RS Berkane also picked up an injury and was replaced by Mounir Shoueir; Osama Al-Maloui, the CHAN's top scorer, has been reported as injured as well.

Punchline 1: If injuries were an Olympic sport, Morocco would sweep the podium.

Punchline 2: And if depth on the bench were measured in jokes, the team would still win the league.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Karim Berkaoui and what did he achieve in the Arab Cup?

Berkaoui is a Moroccan forward for Al-Dhafra (UAE). He scored Morocco's third goal against Comoros in the Arab Cup, becoming the first Atlas Lion to score in two consecutive editions.

What happened to Hamza Hanouri?

Hanouri suffered an ankle injury and is unlikely to feature in the remaining matches, pending medical tests.

Which other Moroccan players were mentioned as injured?

The report notes injuries including Ashraf Ben Cherki (Al Ahly), Youssef Mehri (RS Berkane), Mounir Shoueir (replacement for Mehri), and Osama Al-Maloui.