2026 World Cup: Morocco becomes first African country to qualify

Morocco is the first country from Africa to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The Atlas Lions booked their spot in style with a 5-0 thrashing of Niger Republic.

The North Africans qualify from Group E with two games left, thanks to Tanzania’s 1-1 draw with Congo.

Abdoul-Latif Goumey saw red in the 26th minute, as the visitors went down to 10 men in the first half.

Ismael Saibari made it 1-0 three minutes later and Saibari doubled their advantage before the interval.

There were more goals from Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi.

At the last tournament in Qatar in 2022, the Atlas Lions made history when they reached the semi-finals.

Africa have eight more guaranteed spots from the other groups, while the four best-placed runners-up entering play-offs for one slot.

2026 World Cup: Morocco becomes first African country to qualify