Moroccan defender, Omar El Hilali has revealed that his family could not hold back their tears after earning a call-up to the national team.
The Espanyol right-back has been included in Atlas Lions’ squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying games against Niger and Tanzania.
Reacting to his first call-up, El Hilali described it as the most important news of his football career.
“It was a dreamlike moment. When I shared the news with my family, they couldn’t hold back their tears of joy,” he told the Moroccan FA Media.
“Representing my country of origin is priceless. This moment represents a decisive turning point in my professional career. Even during my team’s match against Real Mallorca, I couldn’t take my mind off this precious invitation.”
Morocco, who sit top in Group E with nine points will be hosted by Niger at the Honneur Stadium on Friday before hosting Tanzania at the Stade Municipal on Tuesday.
