Morocco’s Atlas Lions are on the cusp of making history, set to become the first African team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Morocco’s national football team, the Atlas Lions, moved closer to securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. With a series of dominant performances in the CAF qualifiers, Morocco has showcased their prowess, building on their historic semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup. Led by coach Walid Regragui and stars like Hakim Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri, the team has won crucial matches, including a commanding victory over Senegal, positioning them at the top of their group.
Morocco’s campaign has been marked by tactical discipline and attacking flair, with Ziyech’s playmaking and En-Nesyri’s clinical finishing proving decisive. Their latest qualifier saw them overpower a resilient opponent in Rabat, with a vocal home crowd boosting their momentum. The team’s success reflects Morocco’s investment in youth academies and infrastructure, fostering a golden generation. CAF’s expanded qualification slots for 2026 have heightened expectations, but Morocco’s consistency sets them apart.
The achievement has sparked pride across Africa, with Nigeria’s football fans hailing Morocco’s rise as inspiration for the Super Eagles. Some view their qualification as a milestone for African football, while others urge Nigeria to emulate their discipline. The milestone tests Morocco’s ability to maintain momentum and Africa’s growing influence in global football. As the Atlas Lions near qualification, their journey promises to inspire a continent, with Nigeria watching closely for lessons in building a competitive squad.