As Morocco celebrates its controversial designation as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions, the team shifts its focus to the future under the guidance of new coach Mohamed Ouahbi. This decision adds to Morocco’s storied history in African football and raises expectations as the squad prepares for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. With a strong foundation and a commitment to excellence, the Atlas Lions are aiming to demonstrate their prowess on the world stage.
Morocco has officially declared itself the new champion of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a controversial ruling by the Confederation of African Football. Despite losing 1-0 to Senegal in the January final, Morocco was awarded a 3-0 victory last week after several Senegalese players left the pitch in protest over a penalty decision. The ruling has led to Senegal launching a legal challenge to retain the trophy, but Moroccan officials and fans are celebrating their newfound status.
In a recent friendly match against Ecuador, Morocco drew 1-1 in Madrid, marking the team’s first appearance since the AFCON final and the controversial decision surrounding their title claim. In this friendly, new coach Mohamed Ouahbi took the helm, aiming to harness the momentum of Morocco’s historic performance as the first African nation to reach the World Cup semifinals in Qatar 2022. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, expectations for the Atlas Lions have soared.
Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou expressed the team’s determination to focus on future challenges rather than dwelling on the controversy surrounding the AFCON title. Thousands of fans, many adorned in national colors and blowing vuvuzelas, echoed the sentiment that justice had been served. One supporter cited the importance of adhering to regulations, expressing unwavering faith that Morocco will one day officially celebrate the championship.
Historically, Morocco has won the Africa Cup of Nations only once, in 1976, and many fans view this ruling as a watershed moment. Supporters like Taha El Hadiguy emphasized the significance of the decision, noting that a victory, even months later, is still a victory, as it adds another star to the national team’s accolades.
While Senegal remains aggrieved, the focus for Morocco has shifted to preparations for the upcoming World Cup. The Moroccan media’s coverage reflects this change, leaning more towards the tactical aspirations of Coach Ouahbi and the team rather than engaging with Senegal’s complaints. Ecuador’s coach acknowledged the quality of the Moroccan squad, emphasizing their standing as African champions.
Ouahbi remarked on the strength of his team, disregarding any talk of weaknesses despite their lack of scoring precision against Ecuador. The coach rolled out a formidable challenge, pointing to the team’s current streak of being unbeaten in 25 matches.
Morocco is set to face Brazil, a record five-time World Cup champion, in their opening match on June 13. As the Moroccan Federation prepares to confront Senegal’s legal challenge, Ouahbi and his squad remain laser-focused on their quest for success in the summer tournament, intent on adding another trophy, this time on the pitch.
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