Azzedine Ounahi Sets New Milestone During Morocco's 2026 World Cup Run
Azzedine Ounahi has become the second-most capped African player in World Cup history with 12 matches, while his teammate Achraf Hakimi celebrated his 100th international cap during Morocco's successful 2026 World Cup campaign in the United States.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
1 MIN READ- Azzedine Ounahi reached 12 World Cup appearances, ranking second among African players.
- Achraf Hakimi celebrated his 100th international cap for Morocco in Houston.
- Morocco secured a quarter-final spot after defeating the Netherlands in the round of 16.
- The Royal Moroccan Football Federation honored the team's milestones during the ongoing 2026 tournament.
Azzedine Ounahi is quickly cementing his status as a legendary figure in African football following his impressive performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the crucial knockout stages hosted in the United States, Ounahi reached a significant milestone by recording his 12th World Cup appearance for Morocco. This achievement elevates him to second place on the all-time list of matches played by an African footballer in the tournament, trailing only his teammate Achraf Hakimi.
Historical Milestone and Team Success
The Moroccan national team has been in exceptional form, recently securing a dramatic victory over the Netherlands during the round of 16. This win not only solidified their place in the quarter-finals but also served as the stage for Azzedine Ounahi to surpass several esteemed continental legends in total World Cup caps. As the tournament progresses, the Atlas Lions continue to demonstrate their growing dominance on the international football stage.
The atmosphere surrounding the team has been further energized by the celebration of Achraf Hakimi reaching his 100th international cap. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) organized a special ceremony in Houston to honor the captain, highlighting his dedication and consistent excellence under the national jersey. The event, attended by FRMF President Fouzi Lekjaa, served to recognize both the individual accomplishments of Hakimi and the collective progress of the Moroccan squad.
Looking Ahead in the World Cup
The morale within the camp remains exceptionally high as Azzedine Ounahi and his teammates prepare for their upcoming challenges. Having already navigated tough competition, the squad is now focused on the next phase of the 2026 World Cup. With record-breaking performances from key players and strong leadership from the coaching staff, the team remains a significant contender for the title.
The ongoing commitment from players like Ounahi and Hakimi underscores the professional development of the Morocco national team. As they look toward the quarter-finals, football fans globally are closely watching the Atlas Lions, who continue to surpass expectations and set new benchmarks for African representation in the sport.
