Is Afcon 2025 Set to Define Morocco's Football Future?

The upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) represents a pivotal moment for Morocco, as they aim to assert their dominance in African football. With captain Achraf Hakimi facing a fitness battle due to an ankle injury, the Atlas Lions hope to leverage home advantage in their campaign. This tournament is not only about winning for the first time since 1976 but also about fulfilling a long-term vision to elevate Morocco as a leading footballing nation on the continent.

Last updated: 09 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off this Sunday, Morocco is brimming with optimism despite a crucial setback with Achraf Hakimi's injury. The captain's fitness remains uncertain, but the team is determined to rally around their star player. The tournament's location, which is at home in Morocco, adds an extra layer of excitement and pressure, as the nation has high expectations to perform well. With their recent successes in international tournaments, the Atlas Lions are seen as the clear favourites to clinch the title this time around.

Key takeaways

Morocco last won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1976 and aims to end this long wait.
Captain Achraf Hakimi's fitness is uncertain due to an ankle injury sustained in November.
The Atlas Lions have enjoyed a successful period, including a historic run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Morocco has heavily invested in football infrastructure, leading to increased grassroots participation.
Home advantage could play a significant role in Morocco's performance during Afcon.

Timeline: how we got here

Morocco's journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been marked by significant milestones:

2008: King Mohammed VI first discusses a plan to use football for social and economic development.
2009: The Mohammed VI Academy is opened, aimed at nurturing young football talent.
2019: The $65 million Mohammed VI Training Complex is inaugurated.
2022: Morocco becomes the first African nation to reach the FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
2023: The under-20 team wins the World Cup, and the under-23s secure bronze at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
November 2023: Achraf Hakimi sustains an ankle injury, raising concerns about his participation in Afcon.
10 November 2023: Morocco begins their Afcon campaign against Comoros.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the tournament approaches, the latest news concerns the health of Achraf Hakimi. His ankle injury remains a focal point, with team management emphasising his importance regardless of his playing status. The anticipation surrounding the tournament is palpable, with Moroccan fans expressing hope for victory on home soil.

What was already established

Morocco's footballing prowess has been on an upward trajectory, especially following their remarkable performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The national team's recent successes, including wins in the African Nations Championships and the FIFA Arab Cup, have positioned them as favourites ahead of Afcon.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the direct impact on UK consumers may be limited, the tournament is expected to attract significant attention from sports fans and businesses alike, potentially boosting tourism and trade between the UK and Morocco. The increased visibility of Moroccan football may also lead to greater interest in sporting events from the region.

Businesses and jobs

The anticipated influx of visitors for the tournament could stimulate local economies, including those in the UK with Moroccan connections. Businesses involved in travel, hospitality, and sports merchandise may see a boost as fans look to engage with the event.

Policy and regulation

UK policymakers may take note of Morocco's strategic investments in football infrastructure, possibly influencing future sports funding and development initiatives within the UK. The tournament may also highlight the importance of sports as a tool for social cohesion and development.

Numbers that matter

18: Consecutive victories for Morocco, a world record in international football.
50: Goals scored by the Atlas Lions during their unbeaten run over 20 months.
4: Goals conceded in the same period, showcasing a strong defensive record.
11th: Morocco's current ranking in the FIFA world rankings, the highest for any African team.
1976: The last time Morocco won the Africa Cup of Nations, marking a 47-year drought.

Definitions and jargon buster

Afcon: Africa Cup of Nations, the main international football competition in Africa.
Atlas Lions: The nickname for the Moroccan national football team.
FIFA: Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the governing body for football worldwide.
King Mohammed VI: The current monarch of Morocco, instrumental in developing sports, particularly football, in the country.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Morocco will need to focus on optimising player fitness and maintaining team morale. The immediate goal is to secure a strong opening match against Comoros, setting the tone for the tournament. Fans and players alike are hoping for a vibrant atmosphere that could provide the necessary boost.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Depending on the tournament's outcome, Morocco could either solidify its position as a footballing powerhouse or face renewed scrutiny about its long-term football strategy. Success in Afcon would likely enhance investment in football infrastructure and youth development.

Signals to watch

Performance indicators such as match results and player injuries throughout the tournament.
Fan engagement and attendance figures at games across Morocco.
Media coverage and international interest in Moroccan football leading up to and after the tournament.

Practical guidance

Do

Support the national team by attending matches or engaging in community events related to the tournament.
Stay updated on player conditions, especially regarding Achraf Hakimi's fitness.
Engage with local businesses that may benefit from the tournament.

Don’t

Overlook the importance of the tournament for national pride and unity.
Assume that past successes guarantee future performance; each tournament is unique.
Neglect to consider the social impact of investing in sports and youth development.

Checklist

Review tournament schedules and match times to plan viewings or attendances.
Monitor updates on player fitness and team announcements.
Engage with local Moroccan communities to celebrate the tournament.
Explore tourism opportunities in Morocco, especially if the tournament leads to increased interest.
Stay informed about the implications of Morocco's performance for future investments in football.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the excitement around the Africa Cup of Nations is palpable, uncertainties remain regarding player injuries, particularly Achraf Hakimi's status. The team's current winning streak, while impressive, could face challenges based on the competitiveness of their opponents. Additionally, the scrutiny regarding Morocco's investment in football infrastructure versus other social needs, such as healthcare, may lead to public debate. The balance between sporting success and societal responsibilities continues to evolve.

Bottom line

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is a crucial moment for Morocco as they seek to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in African football. With a strong foundation built over years of investment and development, the Atlas Lions are poised for success, but the uncertainty surrounding key players like Achraf Hakimi adds a layer of complexity. How Morocco navigates this tournament could shape its footballing future and the national pride of its citizens.

FAQs

What is the significance of Achraf Hakimi's injury for Morocco?

Achraf Hakimi's injury is significant as he is the team's captain and star player. His fitness could impact Morocco's performance in the Africa Cup of Nations.

How has Morocco prepared for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?

Morocco has heavily invested in football infrastructure, including training academies and facilities, as part of a long-term strategy to enhance its national teams.

What are Morocco's chances of winning the tournament?

Given their recent successes, including a historic World Cup run, Morocco is considered one of the favourites to win the Africa Cup of Nations on home soil.