Since June 2024, the Atlas Lions have been on an extraordinary winning streak, recently clinching a 1-0 victory against Bahrain in a friendly match on Thursday at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. This triumph marks their 15th consecutive win across all competitions, putting them on par with Spain. Guided by Walid Regragui, the team stands on the brink of setting a historic record for the longest winning streak. Their next hurdle is against Congo, scheduled for next Tuesday, in the final round of the African qualifiers for the World Cup (Group E). From the kickoff, the Atlas Lions aggressively pursued Bahrain's goal, with dynamic flanking maneuvers spearheaded by Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari, and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, all eager to break the deadlock. In the 23rd minute, Ayoub El Kaabi nearly found the net in a one-on-one, but Bahraini goalkeeper Ibrahim Khalil deftly denied him. Notable attempts from Jawad El Yamiq (33rd minute), Abdessamad Ezzalzouli (36th minute), and Ismael Saibari (45+3rd minute) also narrowly missed the target. After the break, the introduction of Hamza Igamane, Youssef En-Nesyri, Eliesse Benseghir, and Oussama Targhaline in the 69th minute revitalized the Atlas Lions' attack. Despite their relentless efforts, Bahrain's vigilant defense continued to hold firm. Ultimately, Walid Regragui's tactical adjustments bore fruit, as Jawad El Yamiq netted the decisive goal in injury time (90+4th minute), breaking through Bahrain's defenses. The Moroccan national team will face Congo next Tuesday on the same field, in the concluding matchday of the African qualifiers for the World Cup (Group E). The Moroccan squad had already secured their place in the 2026 World Cup by the seventh matchday, with a commanding 5-0 victory over Niger.
