AFCON: Morocco's journey through the editions

As the 2025 AFCON approaches—hosted on home soil—Morocco's journey in the continental competition deserves a look back. The Atlas Lions have built a legacy marked by long waits, missed opportunities, but also a handful of memorable campaigns that have shaped their status on the African stage.

Since their debut in 1972, Morocco's appearances at the tournament break down as follows:
– 1972: group stage
– 1976: champions
– 1978: group stage
– 1980: third place
– 1986: fourth place
– 1988: fourth place
– 1992: group stage
– 1998: quarter-finals
– 2000: group stage
– 2002: group stage
– 2004: runners-up
– 2006: group stage
– 2008: group stage
– 2012: group stage
– 2017: quarter-finals
– 2019: round of 16
– 2021: quarter-finals
– 2023: round of 16

Crowned just once, in 1976, Morocco heads into 2025 determined to finally match their rich potential with continental glory.

See also: Algeria—A look back at 20 AFCON appearances

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations