Morocco train in Bloemfontein ahead of Lesotho AFCON qualifier without injured Nayef Aguerd

Morocco’s Atlas Lions held their first training session in Bloemfontein on Sunday as they began preparations for Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Lesotho.

The session took place a day after the squad arrived in South Africa following their opening Group A victory over Gabon, with coach Mohamed Ouahbi turning his attention to securing another three points.

All of the players who travelled to Bloemfontein took part in the session at Ramabodo Stadium in the Rocklands area, which began at 15:00 local time.

Aguerd remains in Morocco

Nayef Aguerd was the notable absentee from the travelling squad as the defender continues his recovery programme at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora.

Aguerd is undergoing a gradual return to competition under the supervision of the Morocco Under-23 technical staff.

Despite remaining in Morocco, the defender will continue to be available to the senior national team ahead of their upcoming friendly against Ghana on 4 October in Tangier.

Morocco lead Group A

The Atlas Lions sit top of Group A after the opening round of qualifying, having collected three points from their 2-0 victory over Gabon.

Morocco’s goal difference of +2 puts them ahead of Niger, who also have three points but a +1 goal difference.

Lesotho and Gabon are yet to register a point and occupy third and fourth place respectively.

Morocco will therefore look to strengthen their position at the top of the group when they face Lesotho on Tuesday.

Atlas Lions target second win

Ouahbi’s team will face Lesotho at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 local time, or 13:00 GMT.

The first training session in South Africa focused on technical and tactical preparations as Morocco began adapting to the conditions ahead of the match.

After opening their campaign with victory against Gabon, the Atlas Lions will be aiming for another win to maintain their early advantage in Group A.