Morocco builds national team strength through dual-national player strategy

Morocco has effectively utilized a strategy to recruit dual-national footballers, resulting in their increased prominence on the national team. Once a rarity, dual nationals now form the majority, bolstering the Atlas Lions as they aim for further success following their semi-final appearance in the 2022 World Cup. The Moroccan football federation emphasizes a hybrid model for talent development, combining local academies with a focus on European-based dual nationals. Key players like Achraf Hakimi and Hakim Ziyech represent the success of this initiative, demonstrating a strong emotional connection to the country. This policy has been critical in Morocco's recent achievements, including winning the 2023 Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations and achieving bronze at the 2024 Olympic Games.

• 2:45 AMYahoo Sports — Morocco's dual-national scouting policy pays rich dividends