Morocco’s recent African Nations Championship (CHAN) victory has only sharpened their hunger for a bigger prize—the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Former Atlas Lions captain Karim El Ahmadi, speaking to CAF Online, revealed that after edging Madagascar 3–2 in the 2024 CHAN final in Nairobi, the next mission is crystal clear: lift the continent’s most prestigious trophy.

“There is no room for second or third place,” the 40-year-old ex-Feyenoord and Aston Villa midfielder declared. “The only target is to win AFCON and keep the trophy in Morocco. That’s every player’s biggest motivation.”

El Ahmadi, who retired in 2022 after featuring at the 2017 and 2018 AFCON tournaments, also highlighted the country’s broader ambition to welcome the world. “I hope visitors enjoy Morocco—there’s so much to discover. Above all, we want fans from every nation to feel at home and want to return year after year.”

Morocco remains one of Africa’s most decorated sides, boasting four continental crowns: the 1976 AFCON title and three CHAN championships (2018, 2020, 2024), along with six FIFA World Cup appearances. With the AFCON on the horizon, the Atlas Lions are eager to add another chapter to their storied history.