Atlas Lions Unveil Formidable Lineup for AFCON 2025 Qualifier Against Central African Republic

Wednesday 16 October 2024 - 07:33

Morocco's national football team, the Atlas Lions, are set to face the Central African Republic in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier match. Head coach Walid Regragui has revealed a powerful starting lineup for the encounter, scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. at the Stade d'Honneur in Oujda.

The Moroccan squad boasts a mix of experienced players and rising stars, with Munir El Mohamedi stepping in as goalkeeper to replace the injured Yassine Bounou. The defensive line features the formidable Achraf Hakimi, alongside Youssef Belammari, Nayef Aguerd, and Jamal Harkass.

In midfield, Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi are expected to provide stability and creativity. The attack looks particularly menacing with Eliesse Ben Seghir, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, and Soufiane Rahimi supporting striker Youssef En-Nesyri, who replaces Ayoub El Kaabi in the starting eleven.

This match marks the fourth round of AFCON 2025 qualifiers, with Morocco aiming to maintain their perfect record in Group B. The Atlas Lions currently sit atop the group with nine points, having secured a convincing 5-0 victory against the Central African Republic in the reverse fixture last Saturday.

Despite already qualifying for AFCON 2025 as the host nation, Morocco's commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Coach Regragui's strategy of integrating emerging talents alongside established stars continues to bear fruit, as evidenced by recent performances.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Guinean referee Naby Lay Toure to officiate the match, assisted by his compatriots Sidiki Sidibe and Mamadi Terry, with Bengali Konate serving as the fourth official.

As Morocco seeks to consolidate its position as a powerhouse in African football, this match presents an opportunity to showcase the team's depth and tactical prowess. Football enthusiasts across the continent will be watching closely as the Atlas Lions aim to roar their way to another emphatic victory on their road to AFCON 2025.