Ilias Akhomach is back with the Atlas Lions. Mohamed Ouahbi has added the Villarreal winger to Morocco’s squad ahead of the upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers, following his strong recent performances at club level.
Ilias Akhomach has received a late call-up to the Moroccan national team, with Mohamed Ouahbi adding the Villarreal winger to his squad ahead of Friday’s clash with Gabon.Akhomach was not included in the original 29-man squad announced by Ouahbi on September 17, but the Morocco coach subsequently called the 22-year-old into camp. The Moroccan federation's announcement did not specify that he was replacing another player.
Strong Villarreal form rewarded
The call-up follows an encouraging spell for Akhomach at Villarreal.
He started Villarreal's previous two La Liga matches and provided an assist in each, including one in the 3-1 victory over Levante. He had registered two assists from six league appearances this season at the time of his call-up.
His return gives Ouahbi another attacking option as Morocco begin their qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Akhomach has since arrived at the Mohammed VI Football Complex alongside Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, completing the Atlas Lions group ahead of the opening qualifier.
Morocco's upcoming fixtures
Morocco face Gabon on September 25 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, before travelling to Bloemfontein to meet Lesotho on September 29.
The Atlas Lions will then conclude the window with a friendly against Ghana on October 4 in Tangier.
For Akhomach, the late invitation represents another opportunity to establish himself in Ouahbi's plans after forcing his way back into the conversation through his performances with Villarreal.
Source / Credit: 90M
