Morocco 4–0 Madagascar: Atlas Lions Dominate in International Friendly

Morocco delivered a commanding performance in Agadir on 3 June 2026, sweeping aside Madagascar 4–0 in an international friendly that showcased the depth and quality of the Atlas Lions' squad. The emphatic victory, played under the floodlights at the Stade Adrar, served as an ideal tune-up for Morocco's preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in which they will be one of the host nations.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Morocco asserted control with fluid passing and high pressing that left Madagascar unable to build any sustained attacks. The home side's attacking trio combined brilliantly, unlocking the Malagasy defence time and again. By the final whistle, four different scorers had found the net, underlining the team's balanced offensive threat.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Hakim Ziyech curled a free-kick over the wall and into the top corner to give Morocco an early lead.
• 31st minute: Ayoub El Kaabi doubled the advantage with a powerful header from a cross by Achraf Hakimi.
• 58th minute: Substitute Sofiane Boufal added a third after a slick one-two with Azzedine Ounahi.
• 74th minute: Youngster Bilal El Khannouss completed the scoring with a composed finish from inside the box.

Tactical Story

Morocco operated in a fluid 4-3-3, with full-backs pushing high to overload the wings. The midfield trio of Ounahi, Sofyan Amrabat, and Selim Amallah dictated the tempo, while Madagascar's 4-4-2 defensive shape was repeatedly stretched. Madagascar's only clear chance came in the 67th minute when a long-range effort from Njiva Rakotoharimalala forced a sharp save from Yassine Bounou.

Standout Players

• Hakim Ziyech: Opened the scoring and was a constant menace from set pieces.
• Achraf Hakimi: Provided two assists and marauded down the right flank.
• Sofiane Boufal: Changed the game after coming off the bench, scoring once and creating multiple chances.

What It Means

For Morocco, the comprehensive win builds momentum ahead of a busy June schedule that includes further friendlies against top-tier opposition. Madagascar, meanwhile, will take positives from a disciplined first half and look to sharpen their defensive organisation before upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The result also extended Morocco's unbeaten run on home soil to 14 matches, a streak that has seen them concede just three goals in that period.