Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Marrakech – After a commanding 2-0 win over Cameroon in the AFCON quarterfinals, Morocco’s national football team ended a 22-year semifinal drought and moved to the brink of history. The Atlas Lions’ performance now places them on course for their highest-ever FIFA ranking.
According to projections based on FIFA’s scoring system, Morocco is set to rise from 11th to 8th globally when the rankings are released on January 19. It would mark the first time the nation breaks into the world’s top eight.
The victory over Cameroon earned Morocco an additional 11.4 ranking points, according to Football Meets Data, a specialized football analytics platform. This boost lifts their total to 1,733 points, enough to leapfrog established powers such as Belgium and Germany.
Brahim Diaz opened the scoring in the 26th minute, marking his fifth goal in as many matches at the tournament. The Real Madrid midfielder capitalized on a corner kick from Achraf Hakimi, with Ayoub El Kaabi’s header setting up Diaz to push the ball home.
Ismaël Saibari sealed the victory in the 74th minute with a powerful left-footed strike, steering the ball into the far corner after receiving it unmarked at the back post.
The match at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium showcased Morocco’s dominance from the opening whistle. The Atlas Lions controlled the first half completely, creating multiple chances through Hakimi’s set pieces. Cameroon struggled under pressure and lost defender Tchamadeu to injury in the 24th minute following a failed tackle.
The projected 8th position represents only the second time Morocco has entered the top ten globally. Their previous peak came in April 1998 when they reached 10th place with 58 points.
Read also: Regragui: ‘We Have Achieved Nothing Yet’
Current calculations suggest Morocco could potentially climb higher depending on their remaining AFCON performances. Since knockout matches do not result in point deductions for the losing team, the Atlas Lions are guaranteed to maintain at least 8th position through the tournament’s conclusion.
Morocco’s next opponent will be decided today when Algeria faces Nigeria in Marrakech. A potential North African derby looms if Algeria wins, adding further intrigue to the semifinal stage. A victory there could push Morocco closer to the top five, with Brazil currently fifth, just 27 points ahead.
This historic ranking achievement reflects Morocco’s consistent upward trajectory on the international stage following their 2022 World Cup semifinal run and their Arab Cup triumph in 2025.
It also underscores years of sustained investment in Moroccan football infrastructure and youth development, firmly positioning the nation among the world’s elite as it prepares for future hosting responsibilities.
