Morocco has written a new chapter in its football history by becoming the first African country to officially secure its spot for the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This qualification was confirmed following a spectacular demonstration of strength with a 5-0 victory over Niger at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, the new temple of Moroccan football with a capacity of 70,000 spectators.
The Atlas Lions, under the guidance of coach Walid Regragui, delivered a controlled and collective performance: Ismael Saibari stood out with a brace, while Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane, and Azzedine Ounahi also scored. This achievement secures Morocco’s third consecutive participation in the World Cup finals and highlights the rising strength of Moroccan football on the global stage.
Beyond qualification, this victory boosts the team’s confidence ahead of the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be hosted by Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. After reaching the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, narrowly eliminated by France, the Atlas Lions now dream of adding their name to the prestigious continental competition, 50 years after their first title.
In the African qualifiers, Morocco quickly established itself at the top of its group, leaving no doubt about its qualification. Other African nations like Tunisia are also moving towards the final phase, but Morocco remains the African pioneer in this 2026 cycle. This momentum is strengthened by the expansion of the World Cup from 36 to 48 teams, allowing nine African nations to directly access the tournament, a historic progress for the continent.