Nigeria’s Group B rivals, Morocco, have released their 26-man squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, set to kick off on April 27 in Egypt. Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi named a formidable mix of homegrown talent and foreign-based stars, indicating Morocco’s intent to make a deep run in the competition. Among the headline call-ups are Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, a promising defender from French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais, and Julien Misbahi, the FC Twente centre-back known for his composure and physicality. Also included is Mouad Dahhak, a rising star with Union Touarga, who has been a standout performer in Morocco’s Botola Pro 1 this season, earning plaudits for his goal-scoring form. Morocco begins its campaign against Kenya on Thursday, May 1, before facing the seven-time champions Nigeria in what promises to be a blockbuster clash three days later. The 2025 U-20 AFCON, hosted in Egypt from April 27 to May 18, is expected to showcase Africa’s next generation of football stars, with Group B shaping up as one of the tournament’s toughest pools. Nigeria, Morocco, Kenya, and one more team will battle for two qualifying spots into the knockout rounds, as the competition also doubles as a qualifier for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Coach Ouahbi’s tactical nous and the quality in his squad could make Morocco a serious threat in the race for continental glory.
Morocco Unveils 26-Man Squad for 2025 U-20 AFCON Ahead of Clash with Nigeria
