Morocco One Win Away From 2026 World Cup Qualification

Morocco could seal their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this week if they overcome Niger in a crucial Group E clash in Rabat.

A sixth straight win would move the Atlas Lions to 18 points, an unassailable lead unless second-placed Tanzania stun Congo Brazzaville earlier in the day. Even if the Tanzanians win, Morocco would only need a point from their September 8 trip to Zambia in Ndola to guarantee qualification.

The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists have dominated their group, collecting 15 points from five games after Eritrea’s late withdrawal reduced the mini-league to five teams. Tanzania trail on nine points, while Zambia and Niger both sit on six. Congo are without a point after suffering three walkovers during a FIFA ban.

Much of the spotlight will again fall on captain Achraf Hakimi, who is chasing a historic campaign for both club and country. Fresh from lifting the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, the 26-year-old right-back is determined to drive Morocco to another World Cup.

“My dream now is to win a trophy with Morocco — either the World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations,” Hakimi told Moroccan media.

With Morocco also hosting the 2025 AFCON, victory over Niger could be the first step in fulfilling that ambition.