The match was played at the newly-constructed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, and Moroccos strong team performance synced with an electric atmosphere in the first-ever football game at the 68500 capacity football theatre.
A brace from Ismaeil Saibari plus goals from Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi ensured the last African team that left Qatar become the first to book their spot for the Canada, Mexico and USA FIFA World Cup.
The Turning Point
The game took a crucial turn in the 26th minute when Nigers Abdoul-Latif Goumey was sent off following two bookings, giving Morocco a numerical advantage and allowing them to press high up the pitch. Ismaeil Saibari capitalized on the opportunity, scoring his first goal with a well-placed finish in the 29th minute to put Morocco 1-0 up. Saibari doubled Moroccos lead just nine minutes later, scoring his second goal with a precise through ball from Yousef Bellamaari.
Despite Nigers efforts to regroup and absorb the pressure, Morocco continued to dominate the game, maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities through their intricate passing moves. Ayoub el Kaabi scored in the 51st minute, making it 3-0 in favor of Morocco after a perfectly weighted cross from Sofyan Amrabat. Hamza Igamane with his second touch coming off the bench to further increase Moroccos lead in the 69th minute, rising highest to meet a pinpoint corner kick from Yousef Bellamaari. Azzedine Ounahi sealed the win with a goal in the 84th minute, slotting home a rebound after a shot from El Kaabi was parried by the Niger goalkeeper, Djibrilla Kassali.
The over 50 000 fans in attendance, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino enjoyed the historic moment at the Moulay Abdellah as Walids men turned on the screw.
Tactical Acumen
The teams performance was a testament to their solid defensive organization and clinical finishing applied by Walid Regragui, as they worked together seamlessly to outmanoeuvre their compact Nigerien side. Walid kept the squad happy as he effectively utilized squad depth and adapted to Nigers defensive setup.
The teams midfielders, Amrabat and Eliesee Ben, controlled the tempo of the game, dictating the flow of play and creating scoring opportunities through their vision and creativity.
Milestone victory
The victory marked a significant milestone for Morocco, as they became the first team from the African zone to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
This achievement is a testament to Moroccos growing football prowess and their determination to make a mark on the global stage.
Up next for the Atlas Lions is a game against Zambia on Monday. Zambia is pushing for a possibility of a runner-up spot that could land them in the playoffs, while for Morocco, it would be sparring and fixing puzzles ahead of the AFCON in December.