Morocco’s football scene has once again captivated global attention for the second consecutive year, marking its significance on both continental and global stages.
This underscores its dominance since the remarkable achievement by the “Atlas Lions” at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they reached the semi-finals, an unprecedented feat for African and Arab football.
The football revolution in Morocco commenced with the triumph of the U23 national team at the Africa Cup of Nations, hosted in Morocco last July.
The young talents, under the guidance of coach Issam El-Sharai, secured their victory over Egypt in the final (2–1), ensuring their qualification for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris in 2024.
Morocco’s football continued to make history with the outstanding performance of the women’s national team at the World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand last summer.
The Atlas Lionesses achieved a phenomenal milestone by reaching the Round of 16, becoming the first Arab team to achieve this in the history of World Cup tournaments.
Additionally, the Moroccan U17 team also drew attention by reaching the quarter-finals in the 2023 World Cup, leaving the competition with heads held high under the guidance of coach Saïd Chiba.
Prior to these achievements, the Moroccan futsal team maintained its exceptional record by winning the Arab Cup for the third consecutive time.
They also secured victories against prestigious international teams in friendly matches, led by their capable coach Hicham El Dekkak.
Beyond sporting gains, Morocco’s international standing soared when it won the honor to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, succeeding after five previous attempts.
This significant accomplishment for an Arab nation was only possible due to Morocco’s possession of all the qualifications necessary for hosting such a crucial sporting event.
The tangible progress in its sports infrastructure and athletic achievements were decisive factors that rightfully earned Morocco the hosting rights for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Regarding the awards ceremony for the best in African football, the year 2023 saw Morocco’s prominent presence. The “Atlas Lions” won the award for the best team in Africa, following their exceptional performance in the 2022 World Cup.
Walid Regragui was honored with the Best Coach award, Yassine Bounou received the Best Goalkeeper award, Nisrine El Chade was named the Best Young Player, and Fatima Tagnaout won the award for the Best Female Player in local clubs.
