Yassine Bounou has reached another extraordinary milestone in his international career, making his 100th appearance for Morocco during Friday's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying clash against Niger at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
The historic occasion places the experienced goalkeeper among the most influential figures in Moroccan football history. With his latest appearance, Bounou becomes the third-most capped player in the history of the national team, joining an exclusive group led by two Moroccan legends.
For a goalkeeper who has represented Morocco across major international tournaments and memorable nights on the global stage, the milestone reflects more than a decade of dedication to the national colours.
A Special Night at the Mohammed V Stadium
Before kick-off against Niger, Bounou marked the occasion with a commemorative photograph alongside Achraf Hakimi, holding a Morocco shirt bearing the number 100. His young son was also present, making the celebration even more personal.
The setting carried particular significance.
Bounou received his first call-up to the Moroccan national team in 2012, ahead of a match against Togo that was also played at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.
More than a decade later, he returned to the same historic venue to celebrate his century of appearances for the Atlas Lions.
It was a fitting moment for a player whose journey with the national team has included some of the most memorable chapters in Morocco's modern football history.
Third on Morocco's All-Time Appearance List
Bounou's 100th appearance places him third in Morocco's all-time international appearance rankings.
The current standings among the leading three players are:
- Noureddine Naybet – 115 appearances
- Achraf Hakimi – 104 appearances
- Yassine Bounou – 100 appearances
With Hakimi still active and Bounou continuing to represent the national team, the rankings could evolve further in the coming years.
Reaching the century mark is a particularly impressive achievement for a goalkeeper, a position where competition, consistency and longevity are essential.
A Goalkeeper Behind Morocco's Greatest Moments
Bounou's importance to Morocco extends far beyond the number of appearances.
He played a central role in the Atlas Lions' historic run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals in Qatar, where his outstanding performances helped Morocco become the first African and Arab nation to reach the last four.
His composure, reflexes and leadership have also made him one of the most recognisable Moroccan footballers on the international stage.
From major international tournaments to crucial qualifying encounters, the goalkeeper has repeatedly demonstrated his value to the national team.
A Century of Commitment to the Atlas Lions
From his first call-up in 2012 to his 100th appearance in Casablanca, Bounou's international journey represents an exceptional period of service to Moroccan football.
The milestone also provides another opportunity to recognise the contribution of a generation that has helped elevate Morocco's reputation on the global stage.
For the goalkeeper, however, the story is far from over. With more international challenges ahead, he will hope to continue adding to his remarkable record.
One hundred appearances, countless decisive saves and a place among Morocco's greatest internationals. Yassine Bounou has earned his place in the history of the Atlas Lions.