From AFCON to World Cup 2026: How Morocco became a football powerhouse
Summary
Morocco's football teams have improved a lot in the past 20 years, reaching high ranks and winning many competitions at different levels. Their success is due to better management, more money spent on football, and good training facilities, including a top academy near Rabat. Changes in rules allowed Morocco to recruit talented players born in Europe to play for them.Key Facts
- Morocco was once often knocked out early in the Africa Cup of Nations and missed many World Cups.
- They reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and are ranked in the top 10 by FIFA.
- Morocco won or reached the finals in several 2024-2025 tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA youth tournaments.
- Their success comes from three main things: better governance, large financial investment, and skilled staff.
- King Mohammed VI started the long-term football development plan in 2008.
- Morocco built many local football fields and a big training academy with excellent facilities.
- FIFA rule changes allowed Morocco to recruit players from their European-born families, strengthening the team.
- Young players like Ayyoub Bouaddi have chosen to play for Morocco instead of France, showing the country’s growing appeal.
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