Morocco has appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as their new head coach ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ouahbi replaces Walid Regragui after the team’s disappointing loss to Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
Leadership Change
Ouahbi, who previously led Morocco’s U-20 team, takes over at a critical moment. His appointment follows the team’s failure to win the AFCON despite reaching the final. Regragui’s tenure, which began in January 2022, ended after the Atlas Lions lost 1-0 to Senegal in the AFCON final in Rabat.
Ouahbi’s Background
Ouahbi, 46, has a rich coaching history. He started his career in Belgium with Maccabi Brussels and later joined Anderlecht. In 2022, he took charge of Morocco’s U-20 team. Under his leadership, Morocco won the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, defeating Argentina 2-0 in the final. His success at the U-20 level earned him recognition, and now he is set to lead Morocco’s senior team.
Morocco’s World Cup Draw
Morocco has been placed in Group C for the 2026 World Cup, alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Ouahbi’s first match in charge will be against Brazil on June 14 at MetLife Stadium. The team’s second match will be against Scotland on June 20 at Gillette Stadium, and they will conclude their group fixtures on June 25 against Haiti at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Conclusion
Ouahbi’s appointment signals a new chapter for Moroccan football. His leadership and past success with the U-20 team bring fresh hope for the Atlas Lions. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Morocco will look to build on their recent achievements and make a strong impact in the tournament.
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