The much-anticipated AFCON 2023 qualifying match between Morocco and Liberia has been abruptly postponed.

The decision, made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), comes in the wake of a powerful earthquake that struck Moroccan soil, prompting concerns over safety and infrastructure integrity.

This seismic event, which rattled the nation, necessitated immediate assessments and precautions, compelling the CAF to prioritize the well-being of players, officials, and spectators.

As a result, the clash between Morocco's Atlas Lions and Liberia's Lone Stars, initially slated for a high-octane showdown, will now see a delayed face-off.

On Friday night, Moroccans across the country felt a shock due to a magnitude 7 earthquake near El Haouz.

The official death toll currently stands at 1,037 people, with 1,204 injured and 721 in grave condition.

The casualties are spread over the provinces of El Haouz, Taroudant, Chichaoua, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, Azilal, and Greater Casablanca, among others.

Official press statement from CAF reads:

"CAF has agreed to postpone the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 Qualifier match between Morocco and Liberia following the earthquake in Morocco which resulted in more than 800 people losing their lives and hundreds injured.

The match was initially scheduled to take place on Saturday 9 September 2023 at 19H00 (Morocco Time) in Agadir, Morocco.

CAF will announce a new date and details regarding the match in due course.

CAF expresses its condolences to the families who lost their loved ones, the Fédération Royale de Football and the people of Morocco.

There will be a moment of silence before the start of all the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 Qualifier matches on Saturday 9 September and Sunday 10 September 2023 to acknowledge and honour the people who lost their lives during the tragedy in Morocco"