Morocco Steps Into The Spotlight: Pirates Coach Says AFCON 2025 Will Impress The Continent

With AFCON 2025 now just days away, the buzz across Africa is rising. From downtown Johannesburg to the bustling markets of Casablanca, fans are counting down to a tournament that promises big atmospheres, world-class football and a host nation eager to show its growth. And according to Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Morocco is absolutely ready to deliver.

Ouaddou, a former Atlas Lions defender with 58 caps to his name, knows better than most what pressure and pride look like on a continental stage. As a runner-up in the 2004 AFCON, he’s walked that road before. Now living in South Africa and coaching in the PSL, he’s got a unique vantage point: a Moroccan football legend watching his home nation’s rise while fully immersed in Mzansi’s football culture.

A Host Nation Hungry To Shine

Speaking in the lead-up to the tournament, Ouaddou couldn’t hide his excitement about Morocco’s moment in the spotlight.

“This is a big event for us, for the kingdom of Morocco,” he said, reflecting on the nation’s long-running ambition to host global tournaments. “My country has been wanting to organise the World Cup for years. We competed with South Africa back in 2010. Although we didn’t win, at least the continent did.”

For many fans, this history adds emotional weight to Morocco’s AFCON hosting duties. It’s more than football. It’s a statement that the country is ready for bigger stages.

A Warm Culture And A Footballing Identity

For Ouaddou, the soul of the tournament lies in Morocco’s culture.

He describes it as a warm, welcoming country where people live and breathe football. Anyone who has taken a wander through Marrakesh’s old town or sat in a café in Rabat on matchday will know exactly what he means. Football isn’t just a sport; it’s woven into everyday life.

And that passion, he says, will be felt across every stadium.

“Morocco loves football. It’s the land of football,” he said. “AFCON is a chance to show that spirit to the whole continent.”

Social media has echoed this sentiment, with North African fans already using hashtags like #MarhabaAFCON and #Morocco2025 to show off stadium preparations, fan zones and the country’s natural beauty.

Football Growth Backed By Vision And Investment

One thing that sets this AFCON apart is what Morocco has built over the past decade and a half.

Ouaddou credits the transformation to King Mohammed VI’s long-term football vision. The country’s training facilities, youth academies and national teams have all taken noticeable strides forward.

“Over 15 years, the King invested in developing football across all levels, even in the women’s game,” he explained. “The results are there to see. In youth teams we’ve won the World Cup and the AFCON. Morocco is setting an example for Africa.”

This is a crucial part of the story. Morocco isn’t just hosting AFCON. They’ve quietly positioned themselves as one of Africa’s most advanced footballing systems.

South Africa Also Earning His Respect

Although his heart is in Morocco, Ouaddou hasn’t held back his admiration for South African football. Living and working in the PSL, he’s had a front-row seat to how local clubs have strengthened their structures and identity.

He says the strong PSL core in Bafana Bafana’s AFCON squad speaks volumes about the level of domestic football in South Africa.

It’s a compliment that resonates deeply for local fans, especially those who have long felt that the PSL’s quality sometimes goes under-appreciated on the continent.

The Continent Awaits A Spectacle

As teams prepare to touch down in North Africa, excitement is building across Africa. Fans are already debating group predictions, possible dark horses and whether the hosts can go all the way.

For Ouaddou, the tournament is more than fixtures and scorelines. It’s an opportunity for Morocco to share its passion, hospitality and football identity with millions.

If his confidence is anything to go by, AFCON 2025 could be one of the most memorable editions yet.

And as Mzansi’s own fans prepare to back Bafana Bafana, there’s a shared anticipation: a celebration of African football in a country determined to rise to the moment.

{Source:SABC Sport}

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