Morocco Names 26-Player Squad for AFCON Qualifiers
The wait is over! Morocco has announced its 26-player squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The Atlas Lions are looking to secure their place in the prestigious tournament, and head coach Walid Regragui has assembled a formidable team to achieve this goal.
Key Players and New Faces in the Squad
The squad features a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, all eager to contribute to Morocco's success.
Notable inclusions:
- Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain): The star defender is back in the squad after missing the World Cup due to injury. His presence will significantly bolster Morocco's backline.
- Hakim Ziyech (Chelsea): The creative midfielder is a key part of Morocco's attacking force. His vision and dribbling skills will be crucial in breaking down opposition defenses.
- Youssef En-Nesyri (Sevilla): The prolific striker was instrumental in Morocco's World Cup run. He will be looking to continue his scoring form in the qualifiers.
New additions:
- Bilal El Khannous (Genk): The 19-year-old midfielder has been making waves in Belgium. His inclusion is a testament to his talent and potential.
- Abdelhamid Sabiri (Sampdoria): The attacking midfielder has been in impressive form for his club and will be hoping to make his mark on the international stage.
AFCON Qualifiers: A Crucial Challenge
The AFCON qualifiers present a significant challenge for Morocco. They are drawn in Group K alongside South Africa, Liberia, and Zimbabwe. While they are considered favorites to top the group, the competition promises to be intense.
Key Dates:
- Matchday 1: Morocco vs. Liberia (June 14th, 2023)
- Matchday 2: Zimbabwe vs. Morocco (June 18th, 2023)
The Atlas Lions will be aiming for strong performances in these crucial matches to secure their place in the 2024 AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
Morocco's Ambitions: Aiming for Glory
The Moroccan national team has been on an upward trajectory in recent years. They reached the knockout stages of the 2019 AFCON and achieved a historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 World Cup. The ambition remains high, with the goal of winning the AFCON title firmly in their sights.
This squad, filled with talent, experience, and youthful exuberance, is ready to fight for Morocco's glory on the continental stage. The AFCON qualifiers are just the first step in their journey, and fans around the world will be watching with anticipation to see if they can live up to the high expectations.