Morocco celebrates FIFA Arab Cup after hard-fought victory over Jordan

By Khalid Mejdoub and Betul Yilmaz

RABAT, Morocco / ISTANBUL (AA) – Morocco was gripped by jubilant celebrations on Thursday evening after the national football team clinched the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 title.

The Atlas Lions sealed a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Jordan after extra time at Doha’s Lusail Stadium, lifting the trophy for the second time, 13 years after their maiden title in 2012.

Following the final whistle, thousands of fans flooded the streets of several cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, and Kenitra in the west, as well as Fez, Tangier, and Tetouan in the north, according to state television and local media.

An Anadolu correspondent reported scenes of widespread jubilation in streets, cafés, and fan zones set up to screen the match in the capital, Rabat, and across other cities.

Morocco’s triumph marked their second title of 2025, coming just months after the same squad captured the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August, co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Midfielder Mohamed Rabii Harimat was named the tournament’s Best Player, Jordan striker Ali Olwan finished as the competition’s top scorer with six goals, and Morocco goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid was voted Best Goalkeeper.

Qatar hosted the 11th edition of the FIFA Arab Cup for the third time in its history, from Dec. 1 to 18, with 16 national teams taking part across the region.