Morocco have entered the final stage of their preparations ahead of their first meeting with Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Atlas Lions completed their final training session at the Mohammed V Complex in Casablanca on Thursday, November 12, with Mohamed Ouahbi putting the finishing touches on his team's preparations.
The atmosphere was positive, with the players combining focused work, tactical preparation and a strong sense of togetherness as they approached an important home fixture.
With qualification remaining the priority, the national team coaching staff are determined to make the most of this international window, both in terms of results and building a squad capable of competing at the next Africa Cup of Nations.
El Aynaoui Withdraws as El Mourabet Joins the Squad
Morocco will head into the encounter with a complete training group following a late adjustment to the squad.
Neil El Aynaoui has withdrawn after experiencing minor physical problems and has returned to Germany to continue his recovery.
His place has been taken by Samir El Mourabet, the RC Strasbourg midfielder, who joins the Atlas Lions for the November international gathering.
The change gives Ouahbi another midfield option as he continues evaluating the players who could form part of his plans for the continental competition.
Ouahbi Wants to Build His AFCON Squad
Speaking ahead of the match, the Moroccan coach explained that the November international window represents an important opportunity to move closer to identifying the group he wants to take to the Africa Cup of Nations.
- “The priority is qualification: winning both matches,” Ouahbi explained.
He also highlighted the importance of the next international break in March, stressing that Morocco should aim to have a squad as close as possible to the one intended for the tournament.
The coach believes the current gathering is particularly valuable for testing players while maintaining continuity within the team.
His approach reflects two simultaneous objectives: securing the necessary results and building a competitive squad with a clear tactical identity.
Morocco Aim to Maintain Their Perfect Qualifying Record
The Atlas Lions currently sit at the top of their AFCON 2027 qualifying group with six points from two matches.
Morocco opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Gabon, before recording another 2-0 win against Lesotho.
Those results have placed them ahead of Gabon, Niger and Lesotho in the group standings.
A victory against Niger in Casablanca would strengthen Morocco's position and allow the team to approach the return fixture with greater confidence.
Two Home Matches Could Bring Morocco Closer to Qualification
The first encounter against Niger is scheduled for Friday, November 13, at the Mohammed V Complex in Casablanca.
The two teams will meet again on Tuesday, November 17, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Playing both fixtures at home gives Morocco an opportunity to take a significant step towards securing their place at AFCON 2027.
For Ouahbi, however, the challenge extends beyond collecting points. These matches are also an opportunity to strengthen combinations, assess emerging options and give his squad the consistency required for the demands of a major international tournament.
The preparations are complete. Now, the Atlas Lions must turn their hard work in Casablanca into another important victory on the road to AFCON 2027.