The Atlas Lions Roar: Global Football Powers Seek Matches with Morocco
The Moroccan national football team, under the leadership of Walid Regragui, has become a highly sought-after opponent for both African and global football powerhouses. This surge in popularity comes as no surprise after their historic performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Their stunning run to the semi-finals, a first for any African or Arab nation, has captivated the world and significantly raised their international profile.
Sources within the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) have revealed a flurry of requests from national teams eager to schedule friendly matches against the Atlas Lions. These matches are seen as crucial preparation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to be hosted by Morocco in late 2025. The interest spans continents, with African giants like Senegal and Ivory Coast expressing keen interest, alongside European heavyweights, notably Italy. This echoes the growing trend of international teams seeking high-quality competition outside of their traditional geographical zones, as evidenced by the increasing number of intercontinental friendly matches in recent years.
Regragui, the mastermind behind Morocco’s World Cup success, will have the final say on which teams are selected for these friendly fixtures. He is currently touring Europe, connecting with Moroccan players based abroad, assessing their form, and strategizing for future challenges. This hands-on approach underscores Regragui’s commitment to maintaining the team’s momentum and building on their recent achievements.
The heightened interest in playing Morocco isn’t solely due to their World Cup performance. Their dynamic, attacking style of play, combined with a solid defensive structure, makes them a compelling opponent for any team looking to test their mettle. Furthermore, the growing number of Moroccan players excelling in top European leagues adds another layer of intrigue and global appeal. Players like Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), Hakim Ziyech (Chelsea – at the time of the original article), and Yassine Bounou (Sevilla – at the time of the original article) have become household names, further elevating the team’s status on the world stage.
The Atlas Lions are also gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. They are scheduled to face Niger and Tanzania in March 2025 for matchdays four and five of the qualification campaign. These matches will be crucial in their quest to secure a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament, showcasing their continued ambition on the global stage. The increased competition for qualification spots underscores the importance of these matches and the pressure on the team to perform consistently.
The future looks bright for Moroccan football. With a talented squad, a respected coach, and growing global recognition, the Atlas Lions are poised to continue their ascent in the world of football. Their journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring football nations and a testament to the power of dedication, teamwork, and strategic vision.
