Perfect Prelude: Morocco Lift Arab Cup Days Before AFCON Kick-Off

Perfect Prelude: Morocco Lift Arab Cup Days Before AFCON Kick-Off

By Our Reporter 

Morocco could scarcely have asked for a more perfect build-up to hosting the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Just three days before the tournament kicks off on home soil, the Atlas Lions lifted the Arab Cup on Thursday night after a dramatic 3–2 extra-time victory over Jordan, igniting celebrations across the country and heightening expectations ahead of AFCON, BSNSports.comng reports.

The triumph has further fuelled national optimism that Morocco are primed to mount a serious challenge for continental glory, extending a remarkable period of success for the country’s football across all levels.

The final, played in Doha, began at a blistering tempo, with Morocco taking the lead after just four minutes in sensational fashion. Oussama Tannane spotted Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila off his line and unleashed an audacious strike from the centre circle that sailed into the net, instantly setting the tone for a thrilling contest.

Jordan, preparing for their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026, responded strongly after the interval. Ali Olwan equalised with a powerful header in the 48th minute before completing the turnaround from the penalty spot midway through the second half.

Morocco, however, refused to surrender the momentum. Three minutes from the end of regulation time, Abderrazzaq Hamed Allah pounced inside the area to fire home the equaliser and force extra time.

The experienced striker struck again in the additional period, finishing from close range to restore Morocco’s lead and secure the Arab Cup title. The victory was particularly significant given the absence of several Europe-based players, who had been rested ahead of AFCON preparations.

A Golden Era for Moroccan Football

The Arab Cup success adds to an extraordinary run for Moroccan football in recent years, underlining the depth and strength of the nation’s footballing structure:

FIFA World Cup 2022: First African nation to reach the semi-finals.

FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025: Champions after defeating Argentina 2–0 in the final.

FIFA U-17 World Cup: Quarter-finalists.

U-23 AFCON: Champions and bronze medallists at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

As AFCON 2025 kicks off on Sunday, Morocco enter the tournament not only as hosts but also as one of the most confident and well-rounded teams on the continent, buoyed by momentum and belief rarely seen in African football.