Few anthems carry as much fresh emotion as Morocco’s right now. After the Atlas Lions made history in 2022, their anthem became a global moment — and they open the 2026 tournament against Brazil on June 13. Here’s the story behind the Cherifian Anthem.
| Anthem | An-Našīd ash-Sharīf (Cherifian Anthem) |
| Music | Léo Morgan |
| Arabic Lyrics | Ali Squalli Houssaini (1970) |
| Language | Arabic |
| Nickname | Hymne Chérifien |
Morocco’s Moment
At the 2022 World Cup, Morocco became the first African and first Arab nation to reach a World Cup semifinal — and their anthem, roared by fans across the globe, became one of the tournament’s defining sounds. In 2026 they open against none other than Brazil on June 13.
The Story Behind the Anthem
The music was composed by Léo Morgan during the era of the French protectorate, and the official Arabic lyrics were added in 1970 by Ali Squalli Houssaini, ahead of Morocco’s appearance at that decade’s World Cup.
What It Means
The lyrics are a devotion to the homeland — “Root of the free, source of light” — pledging unity behind country and king. Full background on Wikipedia.
More World Cup 2026 Anthems & Music
More World Cup 2026 national anthems: Mexico · USA · Canada · Brazil. See also our history of every World Cup anthem (1962–2026) and who sings the official World Cup 2026 song.
The Atlas Lions Roar Again
Morocco changed football history in 2022, becoming the first African and first Arab nation to reach a World Cup semifinal. That run turned the Atlas Lions into a global favorite, and their 2026 opener is a blockbuster: a clash with Brazil on June 13 in East Rutherford.
All of that backstory is why the Moroccan anthem now lands so hard. Backed by some of the most passionate traveling support in the world, the Cherifian Anthem has gone from a pre-match formality to one of the genuine goosebump moments of the modern game.
Morocco’s 2022 run wasn’t a fluke — the Atlas Lions knocked out Belgium, Spain and Portugal on their way to the semifinals, backed by some of the loudest traveling support of the entire tournament.
That global, diaspora-spanning fanbase has turned the Cherifian Anthem into a symbol of African and Arab football pride. When Morocco open against Brazil on June 13, expect the anthem to be one of the most spine-tingling moments of the early rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Morocco’s national anthem called?
It’s the “Cherifian Anthem” (An-Našīd ash-Sharīf), with music by Léo Morgan and Arabic lyrics by Ali Squalli Houssaini.
Why is Morocco’s anthem so emotional now?
After Morocco became the first African and Arab team to reach a World Cup semifinal in 2022, the anthem became a powerful global symbol of pride.
What does the Moroccan anthem mean?
It is a pledge of devotion and unity behind the homeland and the king.
When did Morocco’s anthem get its lyrics?
The Arabic lyrics were written by Ali Squalli Houssaini in 1970, though the music is older.