Morocco Pulls Off a Double Belgian Coup Before the World Cup
25 March 2026
FIFA today approved a sporting nationality switch for one of Morocco's rising forwards, making him officially eligible to represent the Atlas Lions after a transfer from the Belgian federation.
According to the Moroccan daily Al Boutola, 19-year-old Saifeddine Lzaar has decided to represent Morocco, adding another attacking option for the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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FIFA also changed the sporting nationality for 20-year-old Rayan Bounida of Ajax Amsterdam, allowing him to wear Morocco colors after previously playing for Belgium at youth level.
Born on December 11, 2006, Lzaar currently plays for Belgian side Young Genk; he joined them in March 2024. Bounida, who plies his trade at Ajax, had been part of Belgium's youth setup before this switch.
Morocco's first team is prepping for a friendly against Ecuador in Madrid this coming Friday as part of their Madrid-based camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Conversations around these changes highlight the Atlas Lions' growing pull among dual-national players and the potential for a stronger attacking lineup in 2026.
Punchline: Morocco just ordered a double espresso for their attack—two Belgian stars, extra kick, no barista needed.
Punchline: If talent were stamps, Atlas Lions just got two premium ones—time to fly higher than the Belgian coffee break.
