Over the past decade, Moroccan football has achieved remarkable international success, highlighted by the national team's historic run to the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. This achievement made Morocco the first African and Arab nation to reach that stage, defeating Belgium, Spain, and Portugal along the way.
Key players like Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, and Youssef En-Nesyri played pivotal roles. The team, coached by Walid Regragui, showcased defensive solidity and tactical discipline, conceding only one goal in five matches before the semifinal loss to France.
At the club level, Moroccan teams like Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca have won continental titles, including the CAF Champions League. Wydad won the 2022 edition, while Raja won in 2021. Individual players have also excelled abroad, with Hakimi winning multiple league titles at Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan.
The Moroccan Football Federation has invested in youth academies and infrastructure, contributing to a golden generation. The Atlas Lions' World Cup performance inspired a surge in football participation across the country.
