Author: La Redaction
As the kickoff of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaches, Morocco is transforming its cities into true celebration venues with a network of eight official fan zones deployed by CAF and the local organizing committee. Located in host cities such as Rabat (including the large OLM Souissi), Casablanca (two spaces, one of which is at Anfa Park supported by inwi), Agadir, Fès, Marrakech, Tangier, and one in Témara near Rabat, these free zones aim to extend the football festivities beyond the stadiums. Open from noon to 1 AM, they offer giant screens to watch the matches, family entertainment, concerts,…
On the eve of Morocco’s match against Comoros this Sunday, December 21, at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, Achraf Hakimi delivered a clear message at a press conference: this home AFCON is not just any edition. For his fourth participation, the captain of the Atlas Lions emphasized the unique emotion of playing “in front of the people, family, and friends,” and the responsibility that comes with it. “It is special for all Moroccans. It’s an additional motivation to play, defend the country, and give everything for the jersey,” he stated, determined to set an example within the group.…
At the press conference ahead of the opening match against Comoros, Hoalid Regragui extensively discussed the situation of his captain Achraf Hakimi, who has been suffering from an ankle injury since November. He praised the exceptional “sacrifice” of the PSG full-back, who has followed an intensive protocol to be ready. “He has sacrificed like no one else for his country; he is an example for everyone,” he stated with admiration. Despite positive news regarding his recovery, Hoalid Regragui chose to keep the mystery surrounding Hakimi’s participation in the first match. “Will he start, are we protecting him? That will be…
Sofiane Boufal is temporarily stepping away from the pitch with Union Saint-Gilloise, and uncertainty is growing regarding his future at the club. The 32-year-old Moroccan attacking midfielder is not included in the squad selected by David Hubert to face Zulte Waregem, and will also miss the last match of the year against Cercle Bruges. The coach mentioned “personal reasons” without going into details, leaving doubts about a possible return in 2026. This sidelining comes in a sporting context that has already been quiet for Boufal, who has only been a starter once since the beginning of the season across all…
Achraf Hakimi has returned to training with the group during the collective session of the Atlas Lions, a promising sign in his recovery phase. The right-back for Morocco and PSG is making good progress in his rehabilitation, and his presence on the field confirms that his return is approaching. Hoalid Regragui has also expressed great confidence in recent days, believing that his player will be fit for the Africa Cup of Nations and could even be an option for the opening match against Comoros on December 21. Some indications suggest that a cautious approach remains possible, with the idea of…
The Moroccan national team enters CAN 2025 with high spirits. Yesterday, Thursday, December 18, the Atlas Lions won the Arab Nations Cup in Qatar, defeating Jordan 3-2 after extra time in the final. Abderrazak Hamdallah was the hero of the match with a decisive double, allowing Morocco to claim this title for the second time in its history. This success comes at a crucial time, just three days before the opening match against Comoros. It strengthens the positive momentum of a team that has been on an impressive winning streak and is now aiming for a second continental title at…
In a thrilling final at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, Morocco won the Arab Cup 2025 by defeating Jordan 3-2 after extra time. Beyond the title, this evening marked the end of an era for one of Morocco’s greatest scorers: Abderrazak Hamdallah announced his international retirement, just after being one of the standout players of the match. Entering the game in the 71st minute, with the Atlas Lions trailing 1-2, Hamdallah contributed to the turnaround. He first equalized in the 88th minute from a corner, sending Morocco into extra time after the goal was validated by VAR. Then, in the 100th…
The medal ceremony was marred by an incident: several Jordanian players avoided shaking hands with Moroccan coach Tarik Sektioui during the podium presentation. Frustration after a cruel defeat in extra time, or unsportsmanlike behavior? The images quickly circulated on social media, sparking debates. While the Jordanian disappointment is understandable after a historic final loss, this lack of fair play has been lamented by many observers. Arab football is improving in quality, but the values of respect remain essential.
In the 4th minute of the final, Oussama Tannane made a lasting impression with a brilliant lob from over 55 meters, noticing Jordanian goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila off his line. The ball sailed over the keeper and found the back of the net, opening the scoring for Morocco. This goal, described as a “gem” by observers, spectacularly kicked off the final. The former Saint-Étienne player, now with Umm-Salal in Qatar, could very well be among the nominees for the Puskas Award for the most beautiful goal of the year. A magical moment that will be etched in the memories of this…
The goalkeeper of Wydad Casablanca, Mehdi Benabid (27 years old), has received the trophy for best goalkeeper of the competition. With a solid defense, Morocco conceded very few goals before the final, and Benabid was outstanding. His decisive saves, game reading, and composure allowed the Atlas Lions to keep their net intact in several matches. In the final, despite conceding two goals to Jordan, he made numerous saves to keep his team in the game. This award recognizes an exemplary tournament and reinforces the reputation of Moroccan goalkeepers on the international stage. LUSAIL CITY, QATAR – DECEMBER 18: El Mehdi…