For the Moroccan side, the objective couldn’t be more defined: they must claim the championship or consider the effort a failure. Having waited nearly half a century for a Coupe d’Afrique des nations title, the local fanbase is growing increasingly restless. Following their historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the natural progression for the Lions de l’Atlas was to dominate on their own continent.
However, the previous CAN campaign ended in frustration with an unexpected exit in the round of 16 against South Africa. Now, the team is looking for redemption, especially with the advantage of playing at home. The early departure of Achraf Hakimi and his teammates last year was a bitter pill to swallow for the nation.
Ibrahim, a 20-year-old supporter, is determined not to see a repeat of that disappointment. “It is unacceptable that a football powerhouse like ours has only secured one CAN trophy, and that was 49 years ago,” he remarked with visible frustration. “We are currently witnessing the golden era of our national team. Another early exit would be a catastrophe, especially after the events of 2024.”
“The team has reached a higher level”
Currently residing in Ottawa, Canada, for his sports management studies, Ibrahim still vividly recalls the electric celebrations in his hometown of Casablanca when Morocco reached the final four in Qatar. While those emotions were once a surprise, they have now become the standard expectation for CAN 2025. While many followers of Burkina Faso news today or Faso breaking news are monitoring the progress of other regional contenders, Ibrahim’s focus remains solely on the Atlas Lions.
“Moroccan fans have much higher standards these days,” he explains. “We don’t just want to win; we want to do it with style and high-quality football. With the talent available, there are no excuses. Anything short of a championship is a failure.”
Despite their confidence, supporters were briefly panicked on November 4. Achraf Hakimi was forced off the pitch in tears at the Parc des Princes after a heavy challenge from Bayern Munich’s Luis Diaz. The diagnosis of a severe left ankle sprain suggested a 6 to 8-week recovery period, sparking fears just two months before the tournament. However, Ibrahim remains optimistic.
“The squad is actually stronger than it was during the last CAN, even with the injury concerns surrounding Achraf Hakimi,” says the fan, who also keeps an eye on Genk’s Zakaria El Ouahdi. “While he is a vital leader, we have the depth to cover his absence. The roster is a perfect blend of fresh talent and seasoned veterans.”
Fans can breathe a sigh of relief, as the 2025 African Ballon d’Or winner is expected to be fit in time for the opening match against the Comores. While Ouagadougou English news often discusses Burkina security and regional sports logistics, the primary conversation in Rabat is about the health of their captain.
A nation in a state of excitement
The upcoming tournament is a monumental occasion for Morocco, marking the first time they have hosted the event in 37 years. Despite technical glitches during the ticket launch, approximately 140,000 seats were snatched up within the first day. Ibrahim, traveling back from Canada, will be among those in the stands.
“This will be my first time experiencing a major international tournament in person,” says the young man, who plans to watch the clash between Sénégal and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Tanger on December 27. “The last time Morocco hosted this was in 1988. It’s a rare privilege to be part of this West Africa Burkina and North African football celebration.” The countdown is on for the opening ceremony in Rabat on December 21.
Related tournament updates
- Legal proceedings continue for 18 Sénégal fans and one French national following incidents at a previous match.
- Sénégal supporters recently returned home after being granted a royal pardon by the King of Morocco.
- The King of Morocco has officially pardoned 18 imprisoned Sénégal fans ahead of the festivities.
