Morocco have secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with two matches to spare after dismantling Niger Republic 5-0 in Marrakech.

The Atlas Lions’ victory, coupled with a 1-1 draw between Tanzania and Congo in the other Group E fixture, ensured the North Africans cannot be caught at the top of the standings.

Niger’s hopes of resisting Morocco were dealt a major blow when Abdoul-Latif Goumey was sent off in the 26th minute. Just three minutes later, Ismael Saibari broke the deadlock before adding a second to give the home side a comfortable cushion before half-time.

After the restart, Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi all found the net to complete the rout, sealing Morocco’s place at the finals.

This will be Morocco’s seventh appearance at the global showpiece. They last captured the world’s attention in Qatar in 2022, where they became the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup.

Africa will have nine representatives in the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with eight more spots to be claimed by group winners. The four best runners-up will also contest play-offs for the final place.