FIFA President Gianni Infantino hails Morocco after securing 2026 World Cup qualification

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has congratulated Morocco’s national team, the Atlas Lions, after their emphatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The North African giants sealed their place at the global showpiece in style, thrashing Niger 5-0 on Friday night at the newly inaugurated Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat.

Goals from Ismael Saibari, Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi crowned a historic evening as Morocco marked their seventh World Cup qualification, and their third in a row.

Infantino took to social media to laud Walid Regragui’s men for their achievement.

“What an exceptional performance! Congratulations to Morocco, which has qualified for the World Cup for the seventh time in its history. This is a particularly important moment for Moroccan football, as we approach the centenary of the 2030 World Cup, which this magnificent country will host,” he posted on Instagram

The FIFA President urged Moroccan fans and players to savour the moment while looking forward to another memorable tournament.

“But for now, it’s about celebrating this qualification for the fabulous 2026 World Cup. We look forward to seeing more feats, like those you achieved in Qatar to reach the semi-finals,” Infantino added.

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Morocco stunned the world at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals. Their latest qualification further cements their status as one of the continent’s strongest footballing nations.

With the 2026 World Cup set to take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Morocco will once again aim to fly the African flag high on the biggest stage.