Morocco has officially secured its ticket for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, by decisively defeating Niger 5-0 in a qualifying match played in Rabat.
This clear victory guarantees the Atlas Lions a third consecutive participation in the World Cup finals, making Morocco the first African country to qualify for this major competition.
Morocco’s goals were scored by Ismaël Saibari, who netted a brace, Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane, and Azzedine Ounahi, highlighting the national team’s undeniable dominance within Group E of the African qualifiers. With this success, Morocco solidifies its position as leader, just before facing Zambia in a match scheduled for September 8, 2025, where it will attempt to complete a perfect qualifying campaign.
Beyond this historic qualification, Morocco is also preparing to host the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. This continental tournament will take place across several new and renovated stadiums, including the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, which will host both the opening match and the final. Coach Walid Regragui emphasized that the goal now is to maintain momentum in view of the World Cup while aiming for a second continental title, fifty years after their first.
Morocco’s qualifying campaign takes place in a highly competitive African context where many nations vie for World Cup spots. While Tunisia has also confirmed its participation, other teams like Algeria are still awaiting qualification. Morocco therefore begins this dual year 2025-2026 with renewed enthusiasm, supported by strong performances and promising organization for upcoming major international sporting events.