Morocco Sets World Record With 18th Straight Win Ahead of AFCON 2025

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Quick Read

  • Morocco defeated Uganda 4–0 in Tangier on November 18, 2025.
  • The win marks Morocco’s 18th consecutive victory, breaking the international football record.
  • Key players Hakimi and Aguerd missed the match, but Morocco dominated possession and chances.
  • Morocco will host AFCON 2025, starting December 21, facing Comoros, Mali, and Zambia in Group A.

Morocco’s 18th Consecutive Win Breaks Global Football Records

There are moments in sport when a single game becomes more than just a scoreline. On November 18, 2025, Morocco’s national football team did just that, clinching their 18th consecutive victory—a feat that now stands alone atop the world record books. In front of a roaring crowd at Tangier’s Grand Stade (Ibn Battouta), the Atlas Lions overpowered Uganda 4–0 in their final tune-up before hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

A Commanding Performance From Start to Finish

The narrative of the match unfolded almost instantly. Within four minutes, Morocco were ahead: a defensive mishap from Uganda’s Herbert saw the ball deflected into his own net, giving the hosts an early lead and setting the tone for the evening. The Atlas Lions didn’t let up. Their passing was crisp, their movement off the ball purposeful, and their intent unmistakable.

Midway through the first half, Ismail Saibari doubled Morocco’s advantage. The buildup was classic Regragui football—patient possession, probing passes, and a precise final ball from Noussair Mazraoui. Saibari’s finish was calm, the kind of goal that comes from a team brimming with confidence and chemistry.

Morocco continued to press, dominating possession with 64% and unleashing 20 shots—half of which tested Uganda’s goalkeeper. Uganda, meanwhile, struggled to find any rhythm. They registered no shots on target and managed only two attempts overall, a testament to Morocco’s defensive discipline and midfield control.

Finishing Strong: Rahimi and El Khannouss Seal the Victory

The second half brought more of the same. Soufiane Rahimi, stepping up in the absence of regular stars like Achraf Hakimi and Nayef Aguerd, converted from the penalty spot in the 78th minute to make it 3–0. The Atlas Lions were relentless, pushing for more even with the result seemingly decided. Bilal El Khannouss capped the night in the 88th minute, driving home the fourth and final goal to the delight of the home crowd.

Brahim Diaz, the Real Madrid forward, started and played 75 minutes, showcasing his versatility and energy in midfield. His presence added another layer of attacking threat, and he was pivotal in several of Morocco’s best moves.

Setting the Stage for AFCON 2025

This friendly was no ordinary warm-up. With only 33 days until the continent’s biggest football event kicks off, Morocco’s 18-match winning streak—now the longest in international football history—sends a clear message. Previous records held by Spain and Germany have been surpassed, and the Atlas Lions have done so across World Cup qualifiers, AFCON qualifiers, and friendlies. Their consistency under coach Walid Regragui has turned them into a formidable force, not just in Africa but globally.

Earlier in November, Morocco edged Mozambique 1–0, a tighter affair but one that demonstrated their ability to grind out results. Against Uganda, they showed their attacking flair and defensive solidity. The team’s depth was evident, with key players missing yet the performance never faltering.

Morocco will now turn their focus to AFCON 2025, where they will compete in Group A alongside Comoros, Mali, and Zambia. The tournament, hosted in Morocco from December 21 to January 18, promises to be a showcase for African football—and the hosts are rightly considered among the favorites.

The Atlas Lions’ Strength in Numbers

The statistics from the Uganda match underline Morocco’s dominance. Six big chances created, 489 accurate passes at an 88% success rate, five corners earned, and ten fouls committed—indicative of a team willing to fight for every ball. Uganda, by contrast, had no corners and committed no fouls, struggling to break Morocco’s tactical grip.

Coach Walid Regragui’s system is bearing fruit. The squad’s ability to adapt, maintain high intensity, and execute game plans regardless of personnel is a testament to his leadership. The absence of stars like Hakimi and Aguerd didn’t slow the team, and their depth could be the difference-maker in a long tournament campaign.

What’s Next for Morocco?

With the AFCON less than five weeks away, Morocco’s supporters are daring to dream. The team is not only winning—they are rewriting history. The pressure will mount as hosts, but the Atlas Lions have shown they thrive under expectation.

The victory over Uganda isn’t just a statistic; it’s a statement. Morocco is ready, and the rest of Africa is watching.

Morocco’s sustained excellence, even with key absences, signals a well-built squad and a culture of winning that could carry them far in AFCON 2025. Their record-breaking run is not just about numbers—it’s about momentum, belief, and the ability to perform when it matters most. As hosts and favorites, the Atlas Lions must now translate dominance into silverware. The football world will be watching every step.

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