Morocco begin preparations for Niger double-header ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Morocco have commenced preparations for their upcoming double-header against Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the Atlas Lions holding their first training session on Monday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi supervised the opening session as the North African giants stepped up their preparations for the third and fourth rounds of the qualifying campaign.

The first training exercise lasted approximately 90 minutes, with the technical team focusing on getting the available players into shape ahead of the two important encounters.

During the session, the squad was divided into two groups to undertake different training programmes. While the first group worked on the pitch, concentrating on various exercises under the supervision of the technical staff, the second group followed a specialised programme indoors.

The arrangement formed part of the coaching team’s initial preparations as Morocco began their build-up to the two meetings against Niger.

The Atlas Lions are expected to continue their training programme over the coming days, following a schedule designed by Ouahbi and his technical team to ensure the players are adequately prepared for both fixtures.

Morocco will host Niger in the first encounter on Friday, November 13, at 8:00 PM at the Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca.

The two teams will then meet again on Tuesday, November 17, with the return fixture scheduled for the same time at the stadium within the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat.

The double-header presents Morocco with an opportunity to consolidate their position at the top of Group A and strengthen their chances of securing qualification for the 2027 AFCON.

The Atlas Lions currently lead the group with six points after recording victories in their opening two matches against Gabon and Lesotho.

Gabon and Niger occupy the next positions with three points apiece, while Lesotho remain at the bottom of the standings without a point.

Morocco will therefore approach the two encounters with the objective of maintaining their winning momentum and extending their lead at the summit of the group.

With home advantage in both fixtures, Ouahbi will be hoping his players can deliver the required performances against Niger and take another significant step towards qualification for the continental tournament.

The technical team will continue working on the squad’s tactical organisation, fitness and overall cohesion as preparations gather momentum ahead of Friday’s opening encounter.