The Morocco national team continues its successful journey in the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, maintaining its winning streak and positioning itself on the brink of early qualification before two decisive matches against Niger and Zambia during the international break in September.

Morocco will face Niger on Friday, September 5, at the new Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in the capital Rabat, in a highly anticipated match that could secure early qualification, especially as it will be the stadium’s inaugural match in its new form. Afterwards, the Atlas Lions will play their second match against Zambia on Monday, September 8.

The Moroccan team tops Group 5 with a perfect record of 15 points, followed by Niger and Tanzania with 6 points each, then Zambia with 3 points, while Congo is at the bottom with no points. According to the African Football Confederation regulations, the group winner qualifies directly for the World Cup, while the best four runners-up enter a playoff.

The Atlas Lions have several qualification scenarios during the upcoming break; a win against Niger on Friday combined with a Tanzania slip-up against Congo will guarantee official qualification. If both Morocco and Tanzania win, Morocco will need only one point against Zambia on Monday to secure passage. More clearly, Morocco needs just 4 points from its remaining matches to secure qualification regardless of competitors’ results, but may settle for 3 points if Tanzania falters.

The equation is clear: a win over Niger puts Morocco one step away from qualification, while any slip by direct rival Tanzania could spark qualification celebrations at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium.