Azzedine Ounahi has once again led Morocco to the top. Scoring a brace against Canada in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, the Atlas Lions midfielder has confirmed his pivotal role in the Moroccan team’s campaign. Although less prominent at club level in recent seasons, he regains his full influence when wearing the national team’s shirt.
Against Canada, Ounahi was one of the key architects of Morocco’s 3–0 victory. The midfielder scored the first two goals of the match, putting the Atlas Lions on course for a historic qualification for the quarter-finals.
The first goal came following a well-worked free-kick routine, before he finished off a perfectly executed counter-attack led by Chemsdine Talbi to complete a decisive brace.
Ounahi returns to his best form with Morocco
Having first come to the public’s attention at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Azzedine Ounahi subsequently joined Olympique de Marseille before going out on loan to Panathinaikos, then continuing his career at Girona.
Whilst his club career has at times been inconsistent, his performances for the Atlas Lions have remained consistent. Under Mohamed Ouahbi, the Moroccan midfielder has been given a more attacking role, allowing him to fully showcase his technical skills and his ability to break through opposition defences.
“Magic Johnson”, a nickname that sums up his talent
When asked about Ounahi’s profile, former Moroccan international Nordin Jbari did not hesitate to compare him to a sporting legend.
“I call him Magic Johnson,” he said, praising his vision, creativity and ability to deliver unexpected passes.
A comparison that illustrates the Moroccan midfielder’s influence on the Atlas Lions’ attacking play.
A major asset ahead of the clash with France
Despite the emergence of a new generation, epitomised in particular by Ayyoub Bouaddi, Azzedine Ounahi remains one of Morocco’s technical leaders.
His mobility, footballing intelligence and ability to break through defences continue to make the difference in big matches. His brace against Canada comes at the perfect time ahead of the quarter-final against France, where the Atlas Lions will once again be counting on their playmaker to continue their exceptional journey at the 2026 World Cup.
