Alejandro Canizares maintains one-shot lead at Trophee Hassan II

Alejandro Canizares has maintained his one-shot lead at the halfway stage of Trophee Hassan II at Golf du Palais Royal in Agadir, Morocco.

The 31-year-old Spaniard knocked off a round of 68 on Friday to move ahead of Seve Benson, who also played a 68 to follow from his 63 on Thursday.

"I felt really confident so I was not thinking too much, I needed to let the golf happen," Canizares told Sky Sports News.

"In some cases my putter was a little cold today but I kept it going on the back nine.

"It was a pity I bogeyed the 17th because that is a birdie hole but overall I am very happy to be leading at the moment and very excited for the weekend."

Rafael Cabrera-Bello of Spain is currently third on the leaderboard on nine under, while Magnus A. Carlsson, David Horsey and Connor Arendell are all tied for fourth spot.