AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Atlas Lions kick off campaign against Gabon in Rabat

The Morocco AFCON 2027 journey starts this Friday in Rabat, as the Atlas Lions host Gabon in their opening qualifier and play their first official match since the 2026 World Cup.

Morocco AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign starts in Rabat

The national team return to competitive action on Friday at 7 p.m. GMT at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Gabon will be their first opponent in this new AFCON 2027 qualifying cycle.

Morocco are placed in Group A, alongside Niger and Lesotho. The goal is clear: secure an early lead in the group and fully use home advantage in front of passionate supporters.

This match in Rabat carries special significance for fans in the country and for Moroccans living abroad. It offers a first look at the team’s dynamics after the World Cup and sets the tone for this new cycle.

A 29-man squad mixing experience and youth

Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has called up a 29-man squad for this international window, seeking balance between experienced leaders and new talents.

One of the most notable returns is defender Nayef Aguerd, back with the Atlas Lions to bring stability and leadership to the back line.

Several young players are also joining the team, including Soufiane El-Faouzi, Yassir Zabiri, Tawfik Bentayeb and Abdellah Ouazane. For them, this AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign is a chance to earn their place and grow within the national side.

For Moroccans abroad, who closely follow emerging players and dual-national profiles, this list shows a clear intention to build for the future while staying competitive now.

Key absences for the opener

Morocco will have to deal with several important absences against Gabon. Full-back Achraf Hakimi and midfielder Ismael Saibari are both suspended for the opening match.

Up front, striker Ayoub El Kaabi is ruled out through injury, as is defender Chadi Riad. These setbacks force Ouahbi to adjust his starting line-up and tactical options.

The coaching staff will rely on the squad’s depth and on the new faces to keep the required level of performance and secure three points in this first step of the Morocco AFCON 2027 journey.

A symbolic moment for fans worldwide

Beyond the immediate sporting result, this first qualifying match has strong symbolic value. It opens a new chapter after the 2026 World Cup and reflects Morocco’s ambition on the African stage.

For Moroccans in Europe, North America or the Gulf, Friday’s game in Rabat marks the return of AFCON evenings watched from abroad, often with family or friends.

This start against Gabon is part of a larger cycle in which the national team needs to:

• confirm its status among the continent’s leading sides;
• gradually integrate a new generation of players;
• keep a strong emotional bond with supporters at home and abroad;
• secure qualification with as little pressure as possible before the finals.

After this home fixture, the Atlas Lions will travel to South Africa on Tuesday 29 September to face Lesotho on matchday two, aiming to build early momentum in the group.

For the Moroccan community worldwide, these international games remain a key way to stay connected with the country, follow the national team’s path and share the same emotions across time zones.

For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.

For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.