Morocco will face Niger in a crucial Group E clash on Friday as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The match, set to take place at the Stade d’Honneur in Oujda, Morocco, is expected to be a decisive moment in the campaign, with both teams vying for important points.
Where and when to watch
As Niger lacks a stadium approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the match will be hosted in Morocco.
Kick-off is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. local time (GMT), which corresponds to 10:30 p.m. in both Niger and France.
For fans looking to watch the action live, the match will be available on multiple platforms.
Moroccan viewers can tune in to Arryadia, while French audiences will have access to the game via L’Equipe Live Foot. Additionally, global fans can stream the match on FIFA+.
Match preview and analysis
Morocco enters this fixture in dominant form, having secured three victories in as many matches in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
With a perfect nine points, the Atlas Lions sit at the top of Group E and will be aiming to maintain their winning streak.
Boasting a well-balanced squad, Morocco blends experience and emerging talent.
Seasoned players like Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz provide leadership and skill, while promising newcomers including Bilal Nadir, Hamza Igamane, Chemsdine Talbi, and Omar El Hilali seek to make their mark on the international stage.
The team is also riding a wave of confidence with an impressive eight-match winning streak.
إلى مدينة وجــــــدة ✈️
𝐎𝐮𝐣𝐝𝐚 here we come 🇲🇦#DimaMaghrib pic.twitter.com/U9PikUBKAE
— Équipe du Maroc (@EnMaroc) March 20, 2025
However, Morocco might have to adjust their lineup, as Osame Sahraoui and Chemsdine Talbi remain uncertain due to fitness concerns.
This opening match of the year will also see the return of Badou Zaki—this time as Morocco’s opponent.
The former Atlas Lions coach now leads Niger and has made it clear that his team is not to be underestimated.
Niger’s challenge
Niger, currently second in the group with six points, has historically struggled against Morocco.
The Mena have faced the Atlas Lions six times and lost on each occasion. Despite this daunting record, Zaki has express