Morocco has become the first African country to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 5-0 victory over Niger Republic in Rabat.
The Atlas Lions completed a near-perfect qualifying campaign with six consecutive wins, topping Group E with two matches to spare. This marks Morocco’s third consecutive World Cup appearance and seventh overall.
The win highlighted Morocco’s offensive strength, with goals from Ismael Saibari (two), Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane, and Azzedine Ounahi.
The team maintains a 100% record in the qualifiers, and their qualification comes ahead of schedule as other African groups remain competitive. Morocco aims to build on their historic 2022 World Cup run in Qatar, where they became the first African team to reach the semifinals.
With Africa now allocated nine automatic spots for the expanded 2026 World Cup hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Morocco’s early qualification sets a high standard.
The remaining African group winners will follow, while the best runners-up will compete for a potential tenth place through inter-confederation playoffs.
This milestone reflects Morocco’s consistency and tactical strength in African football as they prepare to represent the continent once again on the world stage.
