Morocco’s Golden Football Era Begins
The Morocco golden football era has reshaped the history of Arab and African football. From finishing fourth at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar — the first-ever Arab and African nation to reach the semi-finals — to winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile 2025, Morocco’s rise is nothing short of revolutionary.
Behind this surge lies a national vision built on discipline, planning, and the crown jewel of Moroccan football — the Mohammed VI Football Academy.
From Qatar’s Semifinals to the World Stage
The world watched in awe during the winter of 2022 as the Atlas Lions stunned global giants. Morocco topped the so-called “Group of Death,” leaving Belgium and Canada behind before dispatching Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout.
A 1–0 win over Portugal, courtesy of Youssef En-Nesyri — an academy graduate — sealed Morocco’s place in football history. Though France ended the fairytale in the semi-finals, Morocco’s fourth-place finish was a triumph for an entire continent.
Chile 2025: The Cubs Roar
Three years later, Morocco’s golden football era shone even brighter. The U-20 national team captured the FIFA World Cup in Chile, defeating Argentina 2–0 in a stunning final.
The Atlas Cubs’ journey was legendary — overcoming Spain, Brazil, France, and the United States along the way. Yasser Zabiri, another graduate of the Mohammed VI Academy, scored both goals in the final and earned the Silver Ball as one of the tournament’s best players.
Othman Maama, meanwhile, claimed the Golden Ball — joining legends like Maradona and Messi — and proving Morocco’s future is already here.
The Mohammed VI Football Academy: Heart of a Revolution
At the center of this Morocco golden football era stands the Mohammed VI Academy — a royal vision turned into a world-class talent factory.
Founded in 2009 by King Mohammed VI, the academy’s mission was to rebuild Moroccan football from its roots. With 10 FIFA-approved pitches, elite medical facilities, and a strict 10-year development program, it has produced world-class talents like En-Nesyri, Ounahi, and Aguerd — heroes of Qatar 2022.
Its graduates now fuel Morocco’s success at every level, from U-17s to the senior national team. Even FIFA described it as “the jewel of Moroccan football.”
National Strategy and Unstoppable Momentum
Fouzi Lekjaa’s leadership at the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has elevated Moroccan football to global prominence. From U-17s to Olympic squads, every level has reaped rewards — with Africa Cup of Nations titles, Olympic medals, and a world-record winning streak of 16 consecutive matches in 2025.
This sustained excellence has positioned Morocco as the first African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and as co-host of the 2030 edition with Spain and Portugal.
A Model for the Arab World
Morocco’s journey proves that football glory isn’t born from luck — it’s built through vision, infrastructure, and relentless work.
The Mohammed VI Academy has become the symbol of a new generation — disciplined, inspired, and capable of conquering the world. From Salé to Santiago, Morocco’s message is clear: the era of participation is over; the age of domination has begun.
