Morocco name Hakimi and Brahim Diaz in strong XI to face Niger

Morocco head coach Mohamed Wahbi has announced his starting line-up for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Niger on 17 November 2026, with Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz included in a side that blends established stars with emerging talent.

The fixture has attracted significant attention in Morocco because of its importance to the national team’s progress and supporters’ hopes that a new generation can continue the country’s recent rise.

Wahbi has selected Yassine Bounou in goal, with the experienced goalkeeper continuing in a role that has made him one of Morocco’s key players and their first line of protection in major matches.

The official Morocco line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou

Defenders: Issa Diop, Nayef Aguerd, Noussair Mazraoui, Achraf Hakimi

Midfielders: Ayoub Bouaddi, Oussama Targhalline, Yassir Zabiri

Forwards: Bilal El Khannouss, Brahim Diaz, Abde Ezzalzouli

The defensive selection combines strength at the back with attacking quality from wide areas. Hakimi and Mazraoui are both capable of pushing forward, offering Morocco an additional threat and the ability to create openings from the flanks.

Wahbi’s midfield choices reflect an emphasis on energy, pressing and linking the different areas of the team. The selection also gives younger players the opportunity to make their mark in front of a demanding home audience.

The attack has been set up to provide an additional test for Niger’s defence. Bilal El Khannouss, Brahim Diaz and Abde Ezzalzouli are expected to operate in advanced positions, while young forward Yassir Zabiri has been identified as the player who will lead the attack and given an opportunity to demonstrate his finishing ability.

The line-up illustrates Wahbi’s preference for balance between defensive security and attacking ambition. It combines experienced figures for important moments with opportunities for players regarded as part of the future of Moroccan football.

Much of Morocco’s threat is expected to come from Hakimi and Diaz, both of whom are enjoying strong periods with their clubs. Their pace, movement and quality in the final third could prove decisive, whether through runs from the wings, incisive passes or shots from outside the penalty area.

There is also interest in the contribution of the younger trio of Bouaddi, Targhalline and El Khannouss. Their performances will be seen as an indication of the depth available to Morocco and of the national team’s ability to progress beyond a single generation.

Niger approach the match seeking an upset against one of Africa’s strongest teams. Their strategy is expected to centre on defensive organisation and counter-attacking football, with the aim of taking advantage of any mistake in Morocco’s defence.

The match will also give Wahbi an opportunity to assess new tactical ideas and gauge the readiness of several players ahead of future commitments, as Morocco prepare for major competitions in which they hope to progress deep into the tournament.