Despite being considered one of the favourites to win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco remain grounded, acknowledging their tournament record in recent times and the elusive title that has eluded them for nearly 50 years.
Morocco’s journey to AFCON glory dates back to 1972, when their first appearance concluded without progression to the next stage. However, a resurgent performance in 1976 saw them triumph over Sudan, Congo, and Nigeria in the group stage, ultimately securing the coveted AFCON trophy after defeating Egypt and Nigeria in the final round.
Despite numerous attempts to secure their second AFCON title, the Atlas Lions have faced challenges, often reaching the semifinals but falling short of ultimate success. Their closest pursuit of the title after their first triumph was in 2004 when they finished as runners-up in the tournament hosted by Tunisia.
Building on their recent success as the first African side to reach the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, where they showcased impressive performances, Walid Regragui’s men are now setting their sights on AFCON 2023. With a squad that combines experience and talent, Morocco aims to outclass their opponents and bring home the AFCON trophy once again.
The upcoming tournament promises to be a fierce competition, and the Moroccan squad, led by coach Walid Regragui, is prepared to face the challenges ahead and script a new chapter in the nation’s football history.
2023 AFCON Matches:
- 17 January 2024: Morocco vs. Tanzania
- 21 January 2024: Morocco vs. DR Congo
- 24 January 2024: Zambia vs. Morocco
Key Players to Watch:
- Hakim Ziyech: The Chelsea winger, presently on loan at Galatasaray, played a pivotal role in Morocco’s impressive journey to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup. Ziyech, who switched allegiance from the Netherlands to Morocco, boasts 55 international appearances with 21 goals and 11 assists. This will be his second AFCON appearance, aiming to bolster the team’s attacking prowess.
- Achraf Hakimi: The Paris Saint-Germain defender has notched an impressive eight goals in 68 caps for the Moroccan national team. Known for his versatility on the right side of defence, Hakimi has scored two goals and provided one assist in nine AFCON appearances, aiming to maintain his outstanding form during the tournament.
- Sofyan Amrabat: The Manchester United midfielder, recently honoured in the CAF Team of the Year for 2023, holds a crucial role in the Moroccan national team. Despite facing inconsistency at Manchester United, the 27-year-old midfielder brings valuable experience, having participated in five AFCON matches.
Coach Walid Regragui: Walid Regragui, the 48-year-old coach, became the first African coach to lead a team to the World Cup semi-finals in 2022. With previous successes at Wydad and the Moroccan national team, Regragui is determined to lead a formidable squad in the 2023 AFCON and further contribute to North African football.
Team Statistics:
- Appearances So Far: 19
- Best Results: Champions in 1976
- Worst Result: Group stage in 1972, 1978, 1992, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2012, and 2013
- Most Capped Player: Noureddine Naybet with 115 appearances
- Captain: Romain Saiss
- Top Scorer: Ahmed Faras with 36 goals in 94 appearances
The AFCON tournament will start on January 13, 2024 and conclude on February 11.