On the 20th of August, I received an invitation that instantly lifted my spirits: a personal message from Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), through his officer, Mohammed Amine Rajabi. The official opening of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, ahead of the rapidly-approaching Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). As someone who’s been fortunate to receive such invitations before, I knew what awaited: unforgettable Moroccan hospitality, mouth- watering cuisine, top-tier football infrastructure, and a rich blend of culture and history.
This visit was not just about football; it was an opportunity to experience Morocco’s readiness to host the continent later this year and, in 2030, the world. On August 30, I departed Botswana, flying via OR Tambo and Doha before touching down in Casablanca after a 15-hour, 45-minute journey. Upon arrival, visa processing was swift and efficient.
I have vivid flashback to the last time I was here – over two years ago for the Club World Cup. I had the time of my life back then and was slightly apprehensive that my new adventure might not live up to the memories of the past. I needn’t have worried!
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A driver, arranged by the federation, met me and transported me to the train station, where I caught a scenic ride to the northern city of Tanger. The trip kicked off with excitement, not just from the prospect of exploring Morocco again, but also reconnecting with fellow African sports journalists. Many of us had only ever interacted in the Africa Sports Journalists WhatsApp group, so finally meeting in person made the occasion even more special.
After checking into our hotel and enjoying a much-needed hot bath and hearty late lunch (the lamb and veggies were divine), we began our tour at the newly upgraded Tanger Stadium. Now boasting a capacity of 75, 000, this is the very ground where Botswana will face off against Senegal on Christmas Eve. The structure is impressive, and you can already feel the pulse of future AFCON action in its walls.
Bu will it witness a famous Zebras victory? The walls refused to tell! Our next stop was Agadir, a coastal gem in southern Morocco.
After checking in and having lunch, we toured the Agadir Stadium. FRMF President’s Advisor, Omar Khyari, alongside the construction engineers, guided us through the stadium and shared the country’s ambitious vision — not only for AFCON but for the 2030 World Cup as well. The scale and attention to detail were truly world-class.
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