Morocco head coach Mohamed Wahbi has called up Villarreal winger Elias Achmash to the national team squad for Friday's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Gabon. The summons comes after the Spanish-based player was initially omitted from the squad list announced earlier.
Wahbi said: "I have called up Elias Achmash, the winger from Spanish club Villarreal, to join the Atlas Lions camp in preparation for the upcoming match against Gabon in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations." Achmash has earned 13 international caps since his debut in March 2024, with his last appearance coming as a substitute during the 2025 AFCON.
The move strengthens a squad currently sitting second in their World Cup qualifying group with 7 points from 3 matches. Morocco host Gabon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat in the first match of the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
The current camp at the Mohammed VI Football Center includes 29 players blending experience with young talent. The call-up comes as the team manages some absences, with Ibrahim Diaz's status still unconfirmed due to muscle issues.
The coach hopes Achmash, who recently returned to action with Villarreal, will add experience and pace on the flanks. The team aims to improve its attacking record after scoring 6 and conceding 3 goals in World Cup qualifying so far. The full squad list is available on our squad page.
Morocco's last result was a 2-0 defeat to France on July 9, but their form across the last five matches shows 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. The key qualifier against Gabon kicks off on Friday in Rabat.
The original report is at الهيئة الوطنية للإعلام
