The Atlas Lions, for whom City star Youssef Safri played an integral part in each match, finished behind hosts Egypt and World Cup-bound Ivory Coast in the group stages after a second successive goalless draw, on this occasion in an ill-tempered clash with lowly Libya. A win was the least they had required to advance.
The result was academic as Morocco's defeat to the Ivory Coast and draw with Egypt had left them reliant on the Pharaohs losing. The Egyptians triumphed over the Elephants, however, with a 3-1 win which also saw them top the group and avoid a likely clash with Cameroon in the second round.
Safri will now come into contention for Norwich's trip to runaway Championship leaders Reading on Tuesday night. City have failed to register a victory since losing the midfielder to suspension and then international duty after their fifth successive win over the Christmas period. He will also be able to exert his influence on the second East Anglian derby of the season next Sunday morning.