CAN 2027 Qualifiers: Mazraoui steps into the spotlight and leads Morocco against Gabon

The full-back made a timely advance and was rewarded for a very active performance. In a squad where attention often focuses on attacking players, he took center stage.

The day before the match, Mazraoui had set the objective clearly: “We need to start well right from the outset.” He also urged his team to be “better” than they were during the World Cup.

Soufiane Rahimi then scored the second goal, putting Gabon firmly at bay.

Mazraoui backs up his words with actions

The defender had explained that Morocco needed to “start from scratch” for these qualifiers. His goal immediately underscored this statement and kicked off a controlled evening for the Lions of the Atlas.

Morocco takes three points without having to chase the score, while Gabon leaves this opening day without having found the net.