The Atlas Lions have written another glorious chapter in African football. With an emphatic 5-0 victory over Niger in Rabat, Morocco became the first African country to confirm their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This historic achievement adds to their remarkable rise since the Qatar 2022 World Cup, where they stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals. Morocco 2026 World Cup qualification was secured in record time. Winning all six of their group stage fixtures, they topped Group E with a flawless campaign.
On Friday night, Morocco dismantled Niger with goals flowing from all corners. Ismael Saibari scored twice, Ayoub El Kaabi continued his fine form with another strike, while Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi also joined the scoresheet. The 5-0 win reflected the team’s dominance, ensuring they cannot be caught in their qualifying group.
Morocco now stand as the only side across all nine African qualifying groups with a perfect 100% record. Their consistency in maintaining such form has highlighted why Morocco 2026 World Cup qualification was never in doubt.
Morocco’s Rise Since Qatar 2022
The Atlas Lions etched their name in football history during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals. They knocked out European giants Spain and Portugal before bowing out to eventual runners-up France. Although they lost the third-place playoff to the Netherlands, their run ignited belief across the African continent.
Since then, Morocco have retained their position as Africa’s highest-ranked team. Stars such as Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz, and Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss continue to strengthen their side. With Morocco 2026 World Cup qualification now secured, expectations will be sky-high for another deep run.
Despite already booking their ticket, Morocco still have two qualifiers left to play, against Zambia and Congo. However, the pressure is off, allowing coach Walid Regragui to prepare the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host in December and January. The final will take place in Rabat on January 18, providing the Atlas Lions with an excellent chance to claim continental glory before heading to North America next June.
Morocco’s World Cup Record
- 1970 – Group Stage: Morocco’s first-ever World Cup appearance.
- 1986 – Round of 16: Became the first African nation to reach the knockout stage.
- 1994 – Group Stage: Showed strong presence but exited early.
- 1998 – Group Stage: Narrowly missed qualification for the round of 16.
- 2018 – Group Stage: Returned to the World Cup after a 20-year absence.
- 2022 – Semi-final: Made history as the first African team to reach the top four.
- 2026 – Qualified: First African team to seal a spot for the 2026 edition.
Morocco 2026 World Cup qualification will mark their seventh appearance at football’s biggest tournament. For the first time in their history, they have qualified for three consecutive editions – 2018, 2022, and now 2026. They made history as the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in Qatar 2022, and Ayoub El Kaabi has been their top scorer in qualifying with four goals.
Morocco’s early qualification not only strengthens African representation but also shows how far the team has progressed in recent years. The Atlas Lions are no longer underdogs. Instead, they are entering the competition as a respected force capable of challenging the best in world football. Morocco 2026 World Cup qualification is therefore more than just a ticket – it is a statement of intent.
FAQs on Morocco 2026 World Cup Qualification
Q1: How did Morocco qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Morocco qualified after winning all six of their qualifying matches, including a decisive 5-0 victory over Niger that secured their group win.
Q2: Why is Morocco’s qualification historic?
They became the first African nation to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and achieved it with a perfect record.
Q3: Who were Morocco’s standout players in qualification?
Ismael Saibari, Ayoub El Kaabi, Azzedine Ounahi, and Hamza Igamane played crucial roles, while stars like Achraf Hakimi remain central to the squad.
Q4: How many times has Morocco appeared at the World Cup?
Morocco 2026 World Cup qualification marks their seventh appearance and their third consecutive participation.