Oufkir makes immediate mark as Morocco debut raises selection stakes

Ayoub Oufkir scored on his Morocco debut as the AZ Alkmaar winger made an immediate impact in the 5-1 victory over Niger on Friday.

The 20-year-old was introduced from the bench and needed only 15 minutes to make his mark. He displayed his pace, directness and confidence, recording five shots – three of them on target – before finding the net.

The performance gave fresh weight to his inclusion in Mohamed Ouahbi’s squad, which had prompted debate when it was announced on 4 November.

Oufkir had been viewed by some Morocco supporters as a player selected to secure his international future rather than solely on sporting merit. Born in Rotterdam, he came through the Netherlands’ youth teams and helped the Oranje win the 2025 U19 European Championship.

He had, however, chosen to represent Morocco after speaking with Ouahbi. Oufkir said he experienced “something wonderful” during that conversation.

His decision disappointed Xavi, the Netherlands manager, who acknowledged that his side had made every effort to persuade the winger to choose them.

Oufkir’s lack of a guaranteed starting place at AZ Alkmaar had added to the questions surrounding his call-up. But after Morocco’s victory, Ouahbi offered a firm defence of the player and made clear that his selection had not been motivated by a desire to prevent him from joining the Netherlands.

“Oufkir is a player I have followed for a very, very long time,” Ouahbi said. “Since I was with the U20s, so I know him very, very well. I already wanted him at that time, so we did not give up.”

The Morocco manager also explained the qualities that had persuaded him to select the winger.

“He is a good player, I think you saw that today,” Ouahbi added. “He brings verticality, he is very electric, energetic and technically good.”

Ouahbi then directly addressed the suggestion that Oufkir had been called up simply to secure his international allegiance.

“Above all, he showed today that he is with us because he deserved it, not to block him or try to make sure he played for Morocco,” he said. “He deserves it because of his play and his profile.”

The goal and lively cameo provided an early on-field justification for the faith shown in Oufkir by his manager. It also temporarily eased the doubts that had surrounded the winger’s selection before the match against Niger.