Morocco and Mozambique Face Off in International Friendlies Ahead of AFCON

TANGER, Morocco — Morocco will host Mozambique in an international friendly on Friday, November 14, 2025, as both teams prepare for the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled to begin on December 21.

The match will take place at the Grand Stade de Tanger, marking the first of two friendly encounters for Morocco during the international break. After facing Mozambique, the Atlas Lions will take on Uganda for further preparation.

Morocco, ranked 12th by FIFA, has been on a rapid rise in football, boasting a record of eight wins in their last nine matches. Their impressive form includes a historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 World Cup and a victory in the African Nations Championship this past August.

This year has been particularly successful for Morocco, which recently won the U-20 global crown in October. The team’s aim is to secure AFCON success, with their last title dating back to 1976. Morocco hopes to draw inspiration from Ivory Coast, who won the previous tournament on home soil.

“We are focused on ending our long wait for continental silverware,” said Morocco’s coach. “The momentum we have is crucial as we head into AFCON.”

On the other hand, Mozambique, currently holding a FIFA ranking 89 places lower than Morocco, looks to make a statement despite being less favored. The Mambas finished second in Group I during AFCON qualifiers, securing their place in the tournament.

Morocco has a strong historical advantage against Mozambique, winning three of their last four matches while keeping clean sheets in all victories. Despite this, Mozambique’s recent form has seen them improve, with a recent 1-0 victory over Somalia.

“Facing a team like Morocco will be a tough test for us, but we are ready to showcase our talents,” Mozambique’s coach stated ahead of the match.

In terms of squad updates, Moroccan captain’s absence due to an ankle injury raises concerns as he undergoes recovery. The starting lineup is expected to feature players like Yassine Bounou in goal and star forwards Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub El Kaabi aiming to score against Mozambique.

For Mozambique, veteran midfielder Elias Gaspar Pelembe, at 41 years old, will continue to be a key player. The team hopes to have their new additions impact the game positively.

As the friendly approaches, both teams seek to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the continental showdown. The match’s outcome will play a crucial role in building confidence ahead of AFCON.