Morocco Poised to Make History as First African Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup
Morocco is on the brink of making history as the first African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Under the leadership of Ballon d’Or nominee Achraf Hakimi, the Atlas Lions are gearing up for a crucial matchday-7 showdown against Niger in Rabat.
A victory against Niger will secure Morocco an unassailable lead in Group E—unless second-placed Tanzania manages to secure a win against Congo Brazzaville earlier that day.
However, even if Tanzania does triumph, it would likely only postpone Morocco’s qualification. With an upcoming clash against Zambia on September 8, the Moroccans need just one point to clinch their spot in the expanded 48-nation tournament.
Currently, Morocco sits atop Group E, boasting 15 points from five matches. Their success comes amid a mini-league that was reduced from six teams due to Eritrea’s unexplained withdrawal before the tournament began. Tanzania follows with nine points, while both Zambia and Niger have six points each. Congo remains without a single point after facing three walkovers due to government interference in their football governing body.
Achraf Hakimi, a standout defender for Paris Saint-Germain, has been pivotal in Morocco’s campaign. He recently played a key role in PSG’s Champions League victory, scoring the first goal in a stunning 5-0 final against Inter Milan. Hakimi also captained Morocco to a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, solidifying his status as one of the world’s top right-backs. “My dream now is to win a trophy with Morocco—either the World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations,” he expressed to the Moroccan media.
As Morocco anticipates the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which they will host starting December 21, they are positioned as favorites to capture the title for the first time since 1976.
On the broader African stage, Egypt, led by superstar Mohamed Salah, is also in a strong position to qualify. Victories over Ethiopia and Burkina Faso would secure their top spot in Group A.
Meanwhile, Nigeria, desperate to return to the World Cup after missing the last edition, faces challenges in Group C but remains hopeful with a star-studded lineup.
