Morocco midfielder Reda Belahyane vows to fight for AFCON 2027 opportunity

Moroccan midfielder Reda Belahyane has expressed his excitement after earning a recall to the national team, describing the opportunity to represent his country at the Africa Cup of Nations as a major dream in his career.

The 22-year-old Lazio midfielder was included in coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s 26-man squad for Morocco’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Niger.

Speaking on RMC’s After Italie programme, in comments reported by El Botola, Belahyane revealed that he only discovered his selection after completing a training session with his Italian club.

The midfielder explained that he had not been aware of the squad announcement until he checked his phone and found several congratulatory messages.

“Honestly, I was extremely happy. Playing for Morocco and having the opportunity to represent the national team is a wonderful feeling every time I receive a call-up,” Belahyane said.

“Returning to my country is something beautiful and special,” he added.

Belahyane determined to earn AFCON 2027 place

The Lazio midfielder also spoke about his ambitions with the Atlas Lions, making it clear that he wants to establish himself in the national team and prove his worth ahead of the continental competition.

Belahyane described the prospect of representing Morocco at AFCON 2027 as a personal dream and an important milestone in his international career.

“Representing my country in a competition of this magnitude would be an exceptional reward. I certainly want to fight for the Moroccan national team,” he said.

His recall comes after a strong start to the season with Lazio, where he has established himself as a regular presence in midfield.

Ouahbi explained his decision to bring the midfielder back into the squad during Wednesday’s press conference, highlighting his performances and consistency in Italy’s Serie A.

The Morocco coach believes Belahyane has earned another opportunity to demonstrate what he can offer the national team.

Previous international experience offers fresh opportunity

Belahyane made his senior international debut against the Central African Republic in October 2024 but has since enjoyed limited opportunities with Morocco.

His latest call-up provides an opportunity to compete for a regular place in Ouahbi’s midfield as the Atlas Lions continue their preparations and qualification campaign for AFCON 2027.

The midfielder will now be hoping to make the most of his return and strengthen his chances of featuring in Morocco’s plans for the continental tournament.

Morocco prepare for Niger double-header

Morocco will face Niger at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on November 13 before meeting the same opponents again at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on November 17.

Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 20:00 Moroccan time.

The two encounters will provide Belahyane with another opportunity to impress the national team technical staff as he pursues his ambition of representing Morocco at AFCON 2027.