The Moroccan national team, led by coach Mohamed Ouhabi, secured a convincing 2-0 win over Gabon in their opening match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The match took place on September 25, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Goals from Noussair Mazraoui in the 36th minute and Soufiane Rahimi in the 84th minute sealed the victory for the Lions of the Atlas. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made several crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet.
The team saw several changes with young players being given opportunities, including Ali Maamar, who started on the right side in place of the suspended Achraf Hakimi. Yassir Zabiri was aligned upfront, while Yassine Gessime started on the right wing. In defense, Nayef Aguerd partnered with Issa Diop in the central defensive partnership. The Lions of the Atlas dominated possession, with around 80% of the ball in the early stages.
Morocco created several early chances, with Azzeddine Ounahi having a shot saved and another effort hit the post. Ezzalzouli used his pace to deliver a cross that was cleared by the Gabonese goalkeeper. The visitors adopted a defensive approach, looking to catch the Moroccans on the counter-attack. Their first meaningful attempt on goal came in the 29th minute but did not trouble the Moroccan defense.
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Noussair Mazraoui scored with a low-driven shot that beat the Gabonese goalkeeper. In the second half, Gabon pushed forward, creating a couple of opportunities through Bouanga. However, Moroccan pressure forced them to retreat and defend against the second goal.
Morocco continued to create chances but lacked the final touch. Coach Mohamed Ouhabi made several substitutions, introducing players like El Khannouss, Akhomach, Ouazzane, and Rahimi. It was Rahimi who doubled the lead in the 84th minute with a well-taken goal, assisted by El Khannouss.
In the final minutes, Yassine Bounou made crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet and secure the win for the Lions of the Atlas. This victory places Morocco at the top of Group A, ahead of Niger, who beat Lesotho 2-1. The Moroccan team will next face Lesotho in the second round of qualifiers on September 29, 2026.
The win marks an ideal start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Key to the team's performance was the blend of experienced and young players, with several standout performances, including from goal scorer Rahimi and goalkeeper Bounou. The team will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.
Key points
- Morocco began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a 2-0 win over Gabon.
- Goals were scored by Noussair Mazraoui and Soufiane Rahimi.
- The team is top of Group A after Niger's win over Lesotho.
