Morocco–Benin: King Mohammed VI sends a special message to President Romuald Wadagni
COTONOU, Benin – Morocco and Benin have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation after Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita delivered a special message from King Mohammed VI to Benin’s President Romuald Wadagni during an official visit to Cotonou. The meeting, held at the Marina Presidential Palace on Tuesday, took place on the sidelines of the 7th Morocco–Benin Joint Cooperation Commission, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between Rabat and Cotonou.
Royal message reinforces close ties
Following the audience, Bourita said he conveyed the Moroccan King’s fraternal greetings to President Wadagni and reiterated Morocco’s determination to further expand cooperation with Benin. The Moroccan minister also congratulated the Beninese authorities on the successful conduct of the country’s recent elections and praised Benin’s economic performance, describing it as a model of stability and resilience in West Africa.
The visit highlighted the strong political relations maintained between the two countries, which have continued to deepen through regular high-level exchanges.
Stronger economic cooperation on the agenda
Economic cooperation featured prominently during the discussions, with both sides expressing their ambition to give fresh momentum to bilateral relations. According to Bourita, Morocco and Benin aim to increase private-sector participation, strengthen collaboration between sectoral ministries and launch high-impact development projects capable of generating new economic opportunities for both nations. The renewed partnership is expected to build on the longstanding friendship between Rabat and Cotonou while promoting investment, trade and sustainable development.
Shared commitment to regional security
Regional security was another major topic of discussion, particularly the deteriorating situation in the Sahel. Bourita said the two leaders exchanged views on terrorism and regional instability, stressing the importance of closer African coordination to address shared security challenges. Morocco and Benin agreed on the need to enhance consultation and cooperation to promote peace, stability and security across West Africa and the wider Sahel region.
Partnership set to reach a new level
The meeting reflects the shared ambition of King Mohammed VI and President Romuald Wadagni to elevate Morocco–Benin relations through stronger diplomatic, economic and security cooperation. As both countries seek to expand their influence and partnerships across Africa, Tuesday’s discussions marked another step toward a more comprehensive strategic alliance capable of addressing regional challenges while creating new opportunities for development.
WAFCON 2026: Morocco ready for the celebration—schedule, kick-off times, and details
The countdown is officially on. With just days to go before kick-off, the official schedule and match times for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have been confirmed, as Morocco prepares to host the largest edition in the tournament’s history.
Running from July 26 to August 16, 2026, the continental showpiece will bring together 16 national teams for the first time ever, marking a new era for women’s football in Africa. Matches will be staged in Rabat and Casablanca, with both the opening match and the final taking place in the Moroccan capital.
Morocco Opens Its Campaign on Home Soil
The tournament will kick off on Sunday, July 26, at 6:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. GMT) at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, where Algeria will face Senegal in the opening fixture.
Host nation Morocco will then make its highly anticipated debut later that evening, taking on Kenya at 9:00 p.m. local time (8:00 p.m. GMT) at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium.
Backed by passionate home support, the Atlas Lionesses will aim to begin their quest for a first continental title in front of their fans.
More Than an African Title at Stake
The stakes are particularly high at this year’s tournament. Alongside the coveted African championship trophy, teams will compete for qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The eventual champions will also receive a US$1 million prize, underlining the growing investment and prestige of women’s football across the continent.
Key Dates to Remember
The group stage promises several blockbuster encounters, including Nigeria vs Zambia on August 1 and Ghana vs Cameroon on August 2.
The knockout phase begins with the quarter-finals on August 8 and 9, followed by the semi-finals in Rabat on August 12.
On August 13, Casablanca will host the crucial World Cup qualification play-off matches for the losing quarter-finalists, while the third-place match is scheduled for August 15 at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
The tournament will culminate on Sunday, August 16, when the final kicks off at 8:00 p.m. local time in Rabat, where Africa’s new champions will be crowned.
Group Stage Draw
Group A (Rabat)
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Senegal
- Kenya
Group B (Casablanca)
- South Africa
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Burkina Faso
- Tanzania
Group C (Rabat)
- Nigeria
- Zambia
- Egypt
- Malawi
Group D (Casablanca)
- Ghana
- Cameroon
- Mali
- Cape Verde
A New Chapter for Morocco and African Women’s Football
Following the success of recent major international tournaments hosted by the Kingdom, Morocco is once again set to showcase its world-class sporting infrastructure and organizational expertise. With an expanded format, World Cup qualification on the line, and Africa’s top women’s teams competing for continental glory, WAFCON Morocco 2026 promises to be the biggest and most competitive edition in the history of the tournament.
Morocco finishes as africa’s best team at FIFA World Cup 2026
Although Spain lifted the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy after edging Argentina 1-0 in the final, Morocco has every reason to celebrate its own remarkable campaign. The Atlas Lions ended the tournament in an outstanding seventh place, making them the highest-ranked African nation and reinforcing the Kingdom’s growing stature on the global football stage.
Hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada, the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup concluded with Spain crowned world champions. But for Morocco, the competition marked another historic chapter, as the Atlas Lions once again demonstrated that their run to the semi-finals in Qatar 2022 was no coincidence.
Morocco Once Again Sets the Standard for African Football
Among the nine African nations that qualified for the tournament, Morocco delivered the continent’s strongest performance. A place in the quarter-finals secured the Atlas Lions a prestigious seventh-place finish in FIFA’s final standings, ahead of several traditional football powerhouses.
Only Spain, Argentina, England, France, Norway and Belgium finished above Walid Regragui’s side, highlighting Morocco’s consistency at the highest level of international football.
The final rankings also underline Africa’s growing influence on the global stage. Egypt impressed by finishing 15th, while Côte d’Ivoire (19th), DR Congo (23rd), Ghana (24th), South Africa (26th), Algeria (30th), Senegal (31st) and Cape Verde (32nd) completed the continent’s representation.
Another Milestone for Moroccan Football
Morocco’s latest World Cup campaign further strengthens the country’s reputation as one of football’s emerging global powers. Building on the historic achievements of recent years, the Atlas Lions have established themselves as regular contenders capable of competing with the world’s elite.
The seventh-place finish reflects the progress made by Moroccan football through sustained investment in infrastructure, youth development and sporting excellence—efforts that continue to position the Kingdom among the leading football nations beyond Africa.
Spain Claims the World Title
Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in the final. England secured third place following an entertaining 6-4 victory over France in the bronze medal match.
According to FIFA, the final standings were determined using points earned throughout the tournament, followed by goal difference and goals scored whenever teams were eliminated at the same stage.
A Landmark World Cup
The 2026 edition will be remembered as one of the most significant in football history. It was the first FIFA World Cup featuring 48 teams, produced a record-breaking 308 goals, and showcased the increasing competitiveness of nations from every continent.
For Morocco, however, the tournament will be remembered above all as another landmark achievement. Finishing seventh in the world and leading Africa once again confirms that the Atlas Lions have become one of international football’s most respected and consistent national teams.
Morocco’s economic outlook remains positive, Bank Al-Maghrib tells King Mohammed VI
King Mohammed VI, accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, welcomed Bank Al-Maghrib Governor Abdellatif Jouahri to the Royal Palace in Tétouan on Monday, where the monarch received the central bank’s 2025 Annual Report on Morocco’s economic, monetary and financial performance. The annual royal audience highlights the close relationship between Morocco’s highest institutions and the country’s central bank, while showcasing the Kingdom’s continued economic resilience and long-term development ambitions.
Morocco Continues Its Economic Momentum
According to the report presented to the King, Morocco recorded 4.9% economic growth in 2025, driven primarily by strong investment, while average inflation remained remarkably low at 0.8%. Bank Al-Maghrib also continued its supportive monetary policy, reducing the benchmark interest rate to 2.25% and maintaining sufficient liquidity for the banking sector while encouraging financing for small businesses.
The report also noted continued improvements in Morocco’s public finances, with the budget deficit falling to 3.5% of GDP, alongside stronger foreign exchange reserves totaling 443 billion dirhams, equivalent to nearly five and a half months of imports.
Building a More Inclusive and Sustainable Morocco
While acknowledging the Kingdom’s positive economic trajectory, Jouahri stressed that future growth should benefit all Moroccans more broadly. He highlighted the importance of creating more jobs, reducing social inequalities, strengthening education and vocational training, encouraging greater private-sector participation and continuing structural reforms to support sustainable development.
The governor also pointed to strategic priorities including accelerating the energy transition, improving water resource management in response to climate change and advancing Morocco’s regional development agenda.
A Symbolic Commemorative Coin
During the audience, Abdellatif Jouahri also presented King Mohammed VI with a solid gold commemorative coin issued by Bank Al-Maghrib to celebrate the first anniversary of « Aid Al Wahda. » The commemorative piece reflects Morocco’s tradition of marking significant national milestones while showcasing the country’s rich numismatic heritage.
Tétouan Remains a Royal and Institutional Landmark
The audience once again placed Tétouan at the heart of Morocco’s institutional life. Frequently hosting official royal engagements, the northern city continues to embody the Kingdom’s blend of history, governance and cultural heritage. For visitors seeking to discover Morocco beyond its iconic tourist destinations, Tétouan offers a unique gateway into the country’s royal traditions, architectural beauty and modern institutional landscape.
Morocco: Official squad list for the 2026 Women’s AFCON on home soil
Morocco head coach Jorge Vilda has named his 26-player squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the Atlas Lionesses aiming to finally lift the continental title on home soil. Hosts Morocco will welcome Africa’s best teams from July 26 to August 16, with the final set to take place in Rabat. After finishing runners-up in the last two editions, also held at home, the Atlas Lionesses are determined to go one step further.
Vilda has retained the core of his experienced squad, led by 2025 African Women’s Player of the Year Ghizlane Chebbak, Fatima Tagnaout and prolific striker Ibtissam Jraidi, who has scored five goals in six international appearances in 2026.
Barcelona teenager earns first WAFCON call
The biggest talking point is the inclusion of 18-year-old Barcelona forward Kautar Azraf, who is set to make her Women’s Africa Cup of Nations debut after earning her first senior call-up earlier this year.
Defender Hajar Said (Paris FC), Jade Nassi (Le Havre), as well as experienced duo Chaimaa Mourtaji and Maryame Atiq also return to the squad.
Meanwhile, Hind Hasnaoui, Sabah Seghir, Salma Bouguerch, Anissa Lahmari, Sarah Kassi, Méné El Ghazouani and Kenza Chapelle have all been left out compared to the squad that reached last year’s final.
Tough Group A challenge
Morocco have been drawn in a competitive Group A alongside Kenya, Algeria and Senegal.
The Atlas Lionesses will open their campaign against Kenya on July 26 before facing regional rivals Algeria on July 30 and Senegal on August 3. All three matches will be played at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
Morocco head into the tournament unbeaten in 2026, having recorded five wins and three draws in their friendly matches. Their preparations included a 4-2 victory over Benin before a goalless draw against New Zealand in June.
With an experienced squad and home support behind them, the Atlas Lionesses will be hoping the third time proves lucky as they chase a first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
Morocco FA backs Mohamed Ouahbi and steps up preparations for 2030 World Cup
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has reaffirmed its confidence in head coach Mohamed Ouahbi while outlining an ambitious roadmap towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal.
Meeting on Thursday, July 16, under the chairmanship of FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa, the federation’s Executive Committee reviewed Morocco’s 2026 World Cup campaign and discussed preparations for the historic 2030 tournament.
Lekjaa sets sights on 2030
Opening the meeting, Lekjaa stressed the need to mobilize every stakeholder in Moroccan football to ensure the successful organization of the 2030 World Cup. He described the tournament as a national strategic project aligned with the vision of King Mohammed VI, calling for close coordination between the Morocco 2030 Foundation, the FRMF and the country’s national and regional leagues.
The federation also urged the leagues to modernize their structures and working methods so they can play an active role in delivering a successful World Cup and leave a lasting legacy for Moroccan football.
Morocco’s World Cup campaign praised
The Executive Committee described the Atlas Lions’ performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as « positive and honorable » after the team reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by France. FRMF officials hailed the campaign as further evidence of Morocco’s steady rise on the international stage, following its historic semi-final appearance at the 2022 World Cup.
The federation noted that the achievement reflects years of sustained investment and development, highlighting Morocco’s rise from 84th in the FIFA rankings in 2018 to sixth in the world. Officials also pointed out that Morocco’s path in the tournament included several matches against teams ranked among the world’s top ten.
FRMF dismisses rumours
The Executive Committee also condemned what it described as false information and rumours circulated after Morocco’s quarter-final defeat to France. Lekjaa defended the commitment and professionalism of the national team players, insisting they represented the country with determination throughout the tournament.
He added that the federation had provided the squad with the best possible preparation, including logistical and moral support for players’ families during the competition. The FRMF called for greater responsibility in protecting the national team’s environment from misinformation that could affect its stability and performances.
Ouahbi retains federation’s confidence
At the end of the meeting, the Executive Committee officially confirmed Mohamed Ouahbi as head coach of the Atlas Lions. By renewing its trust in the 49-year-old coach, the FRMF reaffirmed its commitment to continuity as Morocco looks to remain among the world’s leading football nations while preparing for future continental competitions and the 2030 FIFA World Cup on home soil.
Morocco is preparing a “prestigious friendly match” for September 2026
Despite Morocco’s elimination in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-0 defeat to France, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has no intention of lowering the Atlas Lions’ ambitions. Instead, the Moroccan coach wants his team to continue competing against the best nations in the world and use upcoming international breaks to prepare for future challenges. Speaking at his World Cup review press conference on Tuesday, Ouahbi revealed that he has already requested a prestigious friendly match for the next international window in September 2026.
“I have asked for a high-profile match in September to continue being challenged. We need to play more friendly games that put us under pressure,” he said.
For Ouahbi, facing top-level opposition is essential to help Morocco maintain its progress after another historic World Cup campaign. The Atlas Lions reached the quarter-finals for the second consecutive edition, further confirming their status as one of Africa’s leading football nations.
The Moroccan coach believes regular encounters against elite teams will allow his squad to gain experience and continue closing the gap with the world’s best sides.
