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Atlas Lions Continue CAN 2027 Preparations Ahead of Gabon Clash

Morocco completed a second training session at the Mohammed VI Complex as preparations intensify for Friday’s opening CAN 2027 qualifier against Gabon.

By the Atlas Lions Editorial Desk22 Sept 2026How we report

The Atlas Lions are entering the final stages of their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with Mohamed Ouahbi's squad continuing its work at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora.

Three days before Morocco's opening fixture against Gabon, the national team held its second training session on Tuesday morning under the Rabat sunshine.

The focus is now firmly on the first competitive challenge of a new qualification campaign.

A Focused Morning in Maâmora

The squad went through a series of training exercises as the coaching staff continued to prepare the players for Friday's encounter.

The session brought together the majority of Ouahbi's group, with the players working through the different tactical and physical elements ahead of their first official match of the campaign.

The atmosphere around the camp remains focused as the Atlas Lions prepare to begin their road toward CAN 2027.

Two Players Yet to Arrive

The only absentees from Tuesday's session were Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saibari, who are expected to join the group on Wednesday.

Their arrival will give the coaching staff the opportunity to work with the complete squad before the opening qualifier.

With the match approaching quickly, the remaining sessions in Maâmora will be dedicated to putting the final details in place.

Gabon Await in Rabat

Morocco will welcome Gabon on Friday, September 25, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

It will be the Atlas Lions' first competitive fixture of the new international cycle and the opening match of their CAN 2027 qualifying campaign.

The home fixture provides the squad with an important opportunity to begin the campaign in front of its supporters before the team faces an away challenge a few days later.

Lesotho and Ghana Follow

The schedule will remain busy after Friday's match.

Morocco will travel to Bloemfontein, South Africa, to face Lesotho on September 29 in their second qualifying fixture.

The international window will then conclude with a friendly against Ghana on October 4 in Tangier.

The three matches will give Ouahbi valuable opportunities to continue shaping his squad while balancing competitive football with preparation for the challenges ahead.

The Final Days Before Kick-Off

For now, the attention remains on Maâmora.

With the opening match against Gabon only days away, every training session carries greater importance as the players build rhythm and the coaching staff finalise its plans.

The Atlas Lions are now entering the final stretch before their CAN 2027 journey officially begins.

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