The Atlas Lions of Morocco have secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to do so after a commanding 5-0 win over Niger on Friday night in Rabat.
The North African giants, who shocked the world by reaching the semi-finals at Qatar 2022, only needed three points to seal progression from Group E. Their chance was boosted after Tanzania were held to a 1-1 draw by Congo-Brazzaville earlier in the day, setting the stage for Walid Regragui’s men to finish the job.
Niger’s challenge crumbled in the 26th minute when Abdoul-Latif Goumey was sent off for a second yellow card. Morocco quickly capitalised, with Ismael Saibari firing in Youssef Belammari’s cross just three minutes later.
Saibari doubled his tally before halftime, tapping home from an Achraf Hakimi assist. The second half brought more goals:
Ayoub El Kaabi scored from another Belammari pass.
Former Rangers striker Hamza Igamane netted his first international goal from a clever corner routine.
Azzedine Ounahi sealed the victory with a superb curling strike.
The match was played at the newly renovated Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, which will host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final and also feature as a venue for the 2030 World Cup, to be co-hosted by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal.
Elsewhere in African qualifiers:
Egypt edged closer to qualification after a 2-0 win over Ethiopia in Cairo, with Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush scoring from the spot. Victory against Burkina Faso on Tuesday would guarantee their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2018.
Yoane Wissa scored for DR Congo, while Dango Ouattara netted for Burkina Faso to keep both teams’ hopes alive.
With this emphatic win, Morocco continues to underline its status as Africa’s top footballing force and a strong contender for 2026.
