What Happened to Morocco National Football Team?

Following their groundbreaking semi-final appearance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Morocco National Football Team, affectionately known as the Atlas Lions, entered a new era with heightened expectations. Their journey post-Qatar saw them navigate continental challenges and continue to assert their dominance on the African stage.

In early 2024, Morocco participated in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), held in Ivory Coast. Despite topping their group, they suffered a surprising elimination in the Round of 16, losing 2-0 to South Africa on January 30, 2024. This early exit was a setback for a team widely considered pre-tournament favorites.

A significant turning point came with Morocco hosting the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. As hosts, they delivered a strong performance, reaching the final against Senegal. The final match was marred by controversy, with Senegal initially winning 1-0 after extra time. However, on March 17, 2026, the CAF Appeal Board ruled that Senegal had forfeited the final due to their actions during the match, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory and their second AFCON title. Senegal has indicated plans to appeal this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

In terms of coaching, Walid Regragui, the architect of their 2022 World Cup success, resigned from his position in March 2026, shortly after the AFCON 2025 final. His departure, reportedly due to exhaustion after the continental tournament, concluded a highly successful tenure. Mohamed Ouahbi, who had previously led Morocco's U-20 team to a World Cup victory in 2025, was appointed as his successor, bringing a fresh perspective to the squad just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Morocco successfully qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their seventh appearance and third consecutive qualification for the global tournament. They topped their CAF qualification Group E. In the 2026 World Cup, held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Morocco was drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. They advanced to the Round of 32 by finishing second in their group, securing seven points. On June 29, 2026, Morocco defeated the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout (3-2) after a 1-1 draw in the Round of 32. As of today, July 4, 2026, Morocco has continued their impressive run, securing a 2-0 victory over co-hosts Canada in the Round of 16, propelling them into the quarterfinals. The team achieved its highest-ever FIFA ranking of No. 5 in June 2026 and currently stands at No. 6.

Looking ahead, Morocco is also preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, a testament to their growing influence in global football and their commitment to developing world-class infrastructure.