Team of the Week: Morocco crowned African champion after 50 years… and the surprises continue

Sunday 22 March 2026 - 14:43

By: Sahili Aya

Team of the Week: Morocco crowned African champion after 50 years… and the surprises continue

A historic week on every level. In a decision deemed fair, CAF officially awarded Morocco the 2025 AFCON title, following the annulment of the controversial final result and the granting of a 3–0 forfeit victory to the Atlas Lions after their opponent withdrew.

This second continental triumph, after the one in 1976, is part of a broader dynamic marked by internal institutional progress and Moroccan diplomacy advancing with method and consistency.

Tactical formation of the week: 4-3-3

The 4-3-3 setup this week reflects a well-balanced structure between a solid institutional defense, a productive governmental midfield, and a decisive African attack.

The goalkeeper – Resilience and stability

1 – Abdellatif Jouahri
Wali of Bank Al-Maghrib

He maintains the key interest rate at 2.25%, containing inflationary pressures and ensuring the Kingdom’s economic stability with composure.

A central figure in financial regulation, he is selected for the first time as goalkeeper in this “Team of the Week.”

A solid back four

2 – Abdelouafi Laftit
Minister of the Interior

He led a rigorous campaign to control prices during Ramadan, protecting citizens’ purchasing power against speculative practices.

At the same time, he oversees the organization of electoral processes and strengthens actions against suspected corruption.

3 – Abdellatif Hammouchi
Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance

His work is particularly highlighted this week, especially following the publication of the 2026 Global Terrorism Index, which ranks Morocco among the safest countries in the world (100th out of 163, with a zero score).

4 – Abdellatif Ouahbi
Minister of Justice

At the heart of the system, he continues implementing structural judicial reforms.

This week, he presented a detailed report on the application of alternative sentences from August 22, 2025, to February 11, 2026.

5 – Mohamed Rabie Khlie
Director General of ONCF

A true architect of mobility, he stands out for implementing a special train circulation plan for Eid al-Fitr, from March 17 to 29, facilitating travel nationwide.

Midfield – The engine (6 to 8)

6 – Aziz Akhannouch
Head of Government

He announced new exceptional support for transport professionals and chaired the reconstruction commission for areas affected by the earthquake.

He also revised the 2026 growth forecast upward to 5.2%, supported by several positive indicators:

an exceptional cereal
harvest non-agricultural growth of 4.6%
an increase in cement sales (+8.2%)
nearly 19.8 million tourists in 2025 (+14%)

7 – Nizar Baraka
Minister of Equipment and Water

He signed a strategic agreement with the National Agency for Water and Forests to combat dam siltation.

Objective: preserve water resources and improve watershed management.

8 – Nasser Bourita
Minister of Foreign Affairs

A key player on the international stage this week, he continues strengthening partnerships and defending Morocco’s interests.

A phone exchange with Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al Sheikh addressed the situation in Gaza, reaffirming Morocco’s constant support under the guidance of HM King Mohammed VI.

Forward line

9 – Fouzi Lekjaa
President of the FRMF

He successfully led legal and diplomatic efforts with CAF, enabling Morocco to reclaim the continental title after 50 years.

A “historic goal” credited to him as the architect of this outcome.

10 – Walid Regragui
Former national team coach

After leading the team to the final, he officially becomes African champion following CAF’s decision, despite his departure in March 2026.

A central figure in the renewal of Moroccan football.

11 – Mohamed Ouahbi
National team coach

Newly appointed at the helm of the national team, he launches a gradual renewal strategy: integrating young talents while maintaining an experienced core.

This week marks the concrete beginning of the “Mohamed Ouahbi era.”

New entries of the week

Mohamed Ouahbi: symbol of renewal and new technical direction
Walid Regragui: from outgoing coach to continental champion
Fouzi Lekjaa: key actor in the legal and institutional success
Abdellatif Jouahri: guarantor of economic stability
Mohamed Rabie Khlie: pillar of national mobility

Notable returns

Nasser Bourita: strong diplomatic return on the Palestinian issue
Nizar Baraka: strategic progress in water resource management

Performance continuity

Aziz Akhannouch: confirmed positive economic momentum
Abdelouafi Laftit and Abdellatif Hammouchi: continuity of a solid security and institutional line