**Morocco Announces 26-Player Squad For AFCON Qualifiers**

Tecfai Editorial Team

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 12, 2024

58 visitor like this post

Share

Morocco Announces 26-Player Squad for AFCON Qualifiers

The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has unveiled a 26-player squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The Atlas Lions, the reigning African champions, are looking to secure their place in the prestigious tournament scheduled for Ivory Coast in 2024.

Familiar Faces and New Additions

The squad features a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. Coach Walid Regragui has included key players from the 2022 World Cup squad, such as Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, and Youssef En-Nesyri. These seasoned players will be vital for guiding the team through the qualifiers.

The squad also sees the inclusion of several exciting newcomers, including Bilal El Khannouss, who impressed with his performances in the Belgian Pro League. This infusion of youth and fresh energy promises to add another dimension to the Moroccan attack.

Facing South Africa and Liberia

Morocco is drawn in Group K alongside South Africa and Liberia. The Atlas Lions will face South Africa in their opening qualifier on September 9th, 2023, followed by a clash against Liberia on September 12th, 2023. These matches will be crucial for setting the tone for the qualifying campaign.

High Expectations for the Champions

As the reigning AFCON champions, Morocco enters the qualifiers with a target on its back. The team is expected to dominate Group K and secure qualification for Ivory Coast. The presence of seasoned players like Sofiane Boufal and Amine Harit will be crucial for delivering consistent performances and meeting these high expectations.

A Look at the Full Squad:

Goalkeepers:

• Yassine Bounou
• Munir Mohamedi
• Anas Zniti

Defenders:

• Achraf Hakimi
• Noussair Mazraoui
• Yahya Attiyat Allah
• Nayef Aguerd
• Jawad El Yamiq
• Badr Benoun
• Romain Saïss
• Achraf Dari
• Ismail Saibari

Midfielders:

• Azzedine Ounahi
• Sofiane Amrabat
• Selim Amallah
• Bilal El Khannouss
• Abdelhamid Sabiri
• Amine Harit
• Sofiane Boufal

Forwards:

• Youssef En-Nesyri
• Hakim Ziyech
• Abde Ezzalzouli
• Ilias Chair
• Ayoub El Kaabi

Looking Ahead to the Qualifiers

The upcoming AFCON qualifiers will be a crucial test for Morocco. The team will need to perform at its best to secure a place in Ivory Coast. The inclusion of talented young players like El Khannouss will be vital for bringing fresh ideas and energy to the squad. With a strong mix of experience and youth, Morocco looks ready to defend its title and make a strong statement in the upcoming qualifiers.