CAN 2025: Two of Noureddine Naybet’s records broken

Morocco have booked their ticket to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025) after defeating Nigeria in a dramatic penalty shootout (0-0, 4-2 on penalties).

During this victory, two long-standing records held by Noureddine Naybet were shattered: the most-capped Moroccan player in CAN history and the Moroccan with the most starts in major competitions.

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Starting on the right flank, Achraf Hakimi became the Moroccan player with the most starts in major tournaments (World Cup + Africa Cup of Nations).

The Parisian full-back was named in the starting eleven for the 26th time in a major tournament for the Atlas Lions, surpassing both Noureddine Naybet (25) and Romain Saïss (24).

Meanwhile, Youssef En-Nesyri, who came on late in the match, has now become Morocco’s most-capped player in Africa Cup of Nations history, with 21 appearances—just edging out the former defensive stalwart.

The former Deportivo La Coruña centre-back still holds a third record: the Moroccan player with the most matches played overall.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations