The expected Moroccan national team lineup against Lesotho tomorrow, Tuesday, in the second round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, will witness several important changes made by the national coach Mohamed Wahbi. These changes aim to enhance the team’s performance and provide new tactical options, especially after the return of some key players. Wahbi seeks through these adjustments to achieve a second consecutive win in the qualification journey.
One of the most notable returns to the starting lineup is captain Achraf Hakimi, who is expected to play as the right-back, in addition to the prominent striker Ismail Sibari in the front line. The duo missed the previous match due to a suspension imposed by the Confederation of African Football, related to the events that took place during the Africa Cup of Nations final. Despite suffering from a slight injury, Hakimi’s participation is almost certain after joining the Atlas Lions’ group training sessions.
On another note, media reports indicate that Wahbi will rely on player Halhal in the central defense to compensate for the absence of Naif Ekrd who did not accompany the team delegation to South Africa. This step reflects the technical staff’s confidence in the substitute players and their ability to fill the gap left by the main players. These changes come as part of the Moroccan national team’s intense preparations to ensure the best possible performance.
This anticipated match comes after the Moroccan team’s victory in its opening game against Gabon last Friday evening, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat. The match ended with a 2-0 score, with goals from Nassir Mazraoui and Sofiane Rahimi, giving the Atlas Lions a strong moral boost before embarking on the second round against Lesotho, which is considered a significant stage on the road to qualifying for CAN 2027.
The match against Lesotho represents an opportunity for the team to consolidate its lead and confirm its strength in the group, focusing on the harmony between veteran players and new faces amid these changes.
