Morocco Make History With Early World Cup Qualification
Morocco have officially booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to qualify after a dominant 5-0 win over Niger in Rabat. This victory marks another milestone for the Atlas Lions, who continue to build on their groundbreaking run at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, where they became the first African team to ever reach the semi-finals.
Their qualification from Group E was sealed with two games to spare after Tanzania’s 1-1 draw against Congo-Brazzaville earlier in the day. That result left Morocco needing just a win, which they delivered in emphatic fashion in front of their home crowd.
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Early Red Card Turns The Tide
Niger’s hopes of upsetting Morocco took a huge hit when Abdoul-Latif Goumey was sent off in the 26th minute after receiving a second yellow card. Morocco immediately took advantage of the numerical superiority, with Ismael Saibari opening the scoring only three minutes later after being set up by Youssef Belammari.
Saibari doubled Morocco’s lead just before half-time, this time finishing a move orchestrated by star defender Achraf Hakimi.
Atlas Lions Showcase Attacking Brilliance
The second half turned into a celebration for Morocco’s attacking firepower. Ayoub El Kaabi added a third goal shortly after the restart, once again benefiting from another brilliant cross by Belammari.
The night grew even more special when substitute Hamza Igamane marked his debut with a dream goal from a well-worked corner routine. Azzedine Ounahi then sealed the victory in style, curling home a stunning strike to make it 5-0.
The result not only secured World Cup qualification but also highlighted Morocco’s depth and tactical fluidity, with contributions coming from both established stars and emerging talents.
A Special Night At Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium
The qualification was even more symbolic as it was Morocco’s first match at the newly refurbished Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The venue is set to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final and will be one of the key stadiums during the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal.
Fans celebrated passionately, knowing that the road to North America in 2026 is now guaranteed. The atmosphere mirrored Morocco’s footballing rise on the global stage, cementing their position as Africa’s frontrunners.
Morocco Lead The Way For Africa In 2026 FIFA World Cup
With this result, Morocco became the first African team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leading the charge in what will be a historic campaign for the continent. Under the new format, nine African group winners will earn direct qualification, while the four best runners-up will battle for a playoff spot that leads to the intercontinental tournament.
Morocco’s qualification also sends a strong message to the rest of Africa: the Atlas Lions are not just looking to participate, they are determined to make another deep run on the world stage.
Countries Qualified For The 2026 FIFA World Cup So Far
With less than a year until the tournament kicks off across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, a total of 17 nations have already secured their spots. The qualification picture is becoming clearer as the world prepares for the biggest World Cup in history with 48 teams.
Hosts (Automatic Qualification):
Canada
Mexico
United States
Asia (AFC):
Japan (qualified March 20, 2025)
Iran (March 25, 2025)
Jordan (June 5, 2025 – first-ever appearance)
South Korea (June 5, 2025)
Uzbekistan (June 5, 2025 – debut)
Australia (June 10, 2025)
Oceania (OFC):
New Zealand (March 24, 2025 – first guaranteed spot for Oceania)
South America (CONMEBOL):
Argentina
Brazil
Ecuador
Uruguay
Colombia
Paraguay
Africa (CAF):
Morocco (September 6, 2025 – first African qualifier, with a 5-0 victory over Niger)
Total Qualified Teams So Far: 17
This includes 3 hosts, 6 from Asia, 1 from Oceania, 6 from South America, and 1 from Africa. Europe and the remaining African and CONCACAF slots are still in progress.
Morocco’s Journey To 2026: What Comes Next
Morocco’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup will now shift from qualification to preparation. With two games in hand, they can afford to rotate players and test new strategies. Coach Walid Regragui will likely use this time to build squad depth and ensure his team is ready to compete against the world’s best.
Their ambition will be clear, to not just participate, but to once again push beyond Africa’s traditional limits at the global stage.
