
Photo Credit: Manchester United media.
The North African giants will hope to end their long for the trophy when they parade in Group A alongside Comoros, Mali, and Zambia. The last time Morocco lifted the AFCON was in 1976 when it was hosted in Ethiopia.
However, ever since the win, Morocco’s best performance was only runners-up in 2004. Morocco therefore, became the underachiever in the AFCON, in spite of their rich, prestigious records.
“I’m really looking forward to this AFCON, especially because it’s at home. And of course, we hope it’s going to be ours,” the former Manchester United star told BBC World Service.
“Every time I put [on] the Moroccan jersey, it’s like an amazing feeling. It’s difficult to explain. It’s something you feel inside in your heart. Morocco’s primary and most immediate goal is to win AFCON.
“Winning the continental title is seen as the final piece of the puzzle.”
Morocco will head into the AFCON having reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar. The Atlas Lions became the first Arab and African country to go through FIFA World Cup’s semis after beating Portugal 1-0.
They topped their group in Qatar (ahead of Croatia, Belgium and Canada) and then beat former world champions Spain on penalties in the round of 16.
Morocco will open their AFCON campaign against Comoros on Sunday.
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