Morocco eye World Cup qualification as Atlas Lions host Niger in Rabat

Morocco take on Niger on Friday evening at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, with the Atlas Lions aiming to seal their place at the 2026 World Cup during the seventh round of African qualifying. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 local time (GMT+1).

The Group E leaders head into the match in complete control, having won all five of their qualifiers so far to collect 15 points. That perfect record has put them firmly on course for a third successive appearance at the World Cup finals and the seventh in their history.

A victory over Niger would move them a step closer to that goal, though official qualification could be confirmed earlier if Tanzania drop points against Congo.

Walid Regragui’s men also know that four points across their two upcoming fixtures, against Niger and Zambia, would be enough to guarantee their ticket to the finals.

That prospect gives Friday’s contest in Rabat even greater importance, as Morocco seek to continue their momentum while maintaining focus on the bigger objective.

Regragui has named a 27-man squad for this international window, retaining the backbone of the side that impressed at the 2022 World Cup while also handing opportunities to emerging talent.

Among the fresh faces is AS Roma’s Neil El Ainaoui, who has been described by the coach as “a versatile player who will bring a new profile to the Atlas Lions’ midfield.”

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Regragui underlined the balance he sought in his selections. “The key players from the last World Cup are here.

There is competition, of course, but the current form, the style of play we want to adopt, and the players’ experience are decisive factors,” he told reporters during his pre-match press conference in Salé.

He stressed that while the national team’s core should remain stable, opportunities would arise for new players once qualification is secured. “If we win against Niger and qualify, then we can take risks and try other things against Zambia,” he added.

Looking at Friday’s opposition, Regragui warned that Niger should not be underestimated. The Atlas Lions edged a 2-1 victory in the first meeting between the two sides, and the coach expects another close contest.

“It’s difficult to score against this team. However, Morocco is the top nation in the FIFA African rankings and we have the means to win,” he said.

His remarks highlighted both the respect he holds for Niger’s defensive discipline and his confidence in Morocco’s ability to deliver when it matters most.

The coach also addressed the broader challenges of building a side capable of long-term success. Beyond the World Cup qualifiers, Morocco are already preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, where expectations will be high following their semi-final run in Qatar.

For Regragui, this period of qualifiers provides a valuable opportunity to refine his squad, strengthen tactical cohesion, and address any shortcomings revealed in recent performances.

Friday’s match is expected to draw a packed crowd at the newly renovated Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, adding further weight to the occasion.

Supporters will be eager not only to celebrate another step toward the World Cup but also to witness a team continuing to evolve while carrying the hopes of a nation.

With qualification in sight, Morocco know the task before them: maintain their perfect run, secure the points against Niger, and edge closer to booking their place on football’s biggest stage.