Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat-Olympiacos’s prolific Moroccan striker Ayoub El Kaabi has made history in the 2023-24 UEFA Europa Conference League season.
At 30 years old, the Moroccan has become the first African player to score an impressive 15 goals in a single European campaign, far surpassing legends like Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, and Mohamed Salah.
The Atlas Lion’s journey to this remarkable achievement is a tale of inspiration and dedication. Born in Casablanca in 1993, he began his football career in the Moroccan amateur league, showcasing his talent with clubs such as Racing AC, RS Berkane, and Wydad AC.
His standout performances domestically earned him a spot in the Moroccan national team, where he excelled, winning the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in 2018 and 2020 while clinching the titles of top scorer and best player in both tournaments.
After a few anonymous years in the Chinese Super League, El Kaabi’s 2023 transfer to Olympiacos is quickly proving to be a game-changer. His impact has been immediate and decisive for the Greek club, with his bagful of goals playing a pivotal role in guiding the team to the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Notably, he scored five crucial goals in the two legs against Aston Villa in the semi-finals, showcasing his clinical finishing and ability to shine on the grandest stages.
Read also: Hakimi Becomes Moroccan Player with Most UEFA Champions League Appearances
Ayoub’s achievement stands out even more when compared to the performances of other African football stars in European competitions.
Surpassing the likes of Didier Drogba and Sebastien Haller, as well as outshining Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, the Moroccan striker’s 15-goal tally in a single European campaign is a testament to his exceptional skills and prowess as a striker.
This historic campaign has solidified El Kaabi’s position as one of the most prominent strikers in Moroccan and African football. His journey from grassroots football to the pinnacle of European competition exemplifies his unwavering determination, hard work, and natural talent.
As he leads Olympiacos into the Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina, El Kaabi has the opportunity to script another chapter in his extraordinary story, inspiring a new generation of Moroccan and African footballers with his remarkable achievements on the pitch.
