Moroccan national team head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has included 20-year-old winger Ayoub Oufkir in the squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 qualifying double-header against Niger. This call-up marks an important milestone in Oufkir's young career and opens a new chapter in his international journey. Born in Rotterdam on January 4, 2006, Oufkir developed his footballing skills in the Netherlands and progressed through Sparta Rotterdam's youth system before making his senior breakthrough.
Oufkir's development has been particularly interesting over the past two seasons. He made his first-team breakthrough at Sparta Rotterdam, where he featured in the Eredivisie before earning a move to AZ Alkmaar in January 2026 on a contract running until June 2030. During the 2025-26 campaign, he made 35 senior appearances and scored four goals across the Dutch league, domestic cup, and European competitions.
The winger has continued to make progress during the 2026-27 season, registering 10 Eredivisie appearances and two goals for AZ, while also featuring three times in the UEFA Europa League. He has also played three matches for Jong AZ, the club's reserve team, scoring three goals. Oufkir's international background adds another interesting dimension to his first Morocco call-up, having previously represented the Netherlands at youth level, featuring for the country's Under-19 and Under-21 teams.
Oufkir was part of the Netherlands squad that won the 2025 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, finishing the tournament with two goals. His decision to represent Morocco at senior level now gives the Atlas Lions another attacking option with experience in European youth football. Ouahbi has expressed his admiration for Oufkir's pace and playing style, saying he stands out for his technical ability and quality crosses.
Ouahbi has confidence in the young winger's potential and room for development, stating that the team wants to give young players a chance because they can develop quickly. Oufkir's inclusion in the Atlas Lions squad comes as Morocco prepares for two meetings with Niger in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, with the first encounter scheduled for November 13 at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.
The return fixture will take place on November 17 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Although the first call-up does not guarantee Oufkir an immediate playing time, it represents an important opportunity to adapt to the senior national team and demonstrate what he can offer. This call-up is a significant achievement for Oufkir, who has worked his way up through the youth ranks and into the senior national team.
The Atlas Lions will look to build on their momentum in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, with Oufkir providing a fresh attacking option for the team. His pace and technical ability will be valuable assets for Morocco as they take on Niger in the upcoming matches.
Key points
- Ayoub Oufkir, 20, has earned his first Morocco call-up for the AFCON 2027 qualifying double-header against Niger.
- Oufkir has made 10 Eredivisie appearances and scored two goals for AZ during the 2026-27 season.
- He was part of the Netherlands squad that won the 2025 UEFA European Under-19 Championship.
