Morocco’s Jamal Harkass Fulfills Late Mother’s Dream, Joins National Soccer Team

"My mother, may God have her soul, always told me: ’If God wills it, I will see you in the national team’ one day," he confided in an interview with the website of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. Despite the passing of his mother, Harkass is proud to wear the national jersey and wishes to "make a contribution to this group."

Determined, he assured Walid Regragui, the coach, that he is "ready to sacrifice [himself] for [his] country." The national team is actively preparing for the matches against the Central African Republic, scheduled for October 12 and 15 in Oujda, as part of the qualifications for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

To read: Analyst Questions Morocco’s Call-Up of Out-of-Form Striker En-Nesyri for CAN Qualifiers

Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal, defender of Stade Rennais, has also been called up to the national team. "I couldn’t believe it, it made me incredibly happy," he said, thanking the coach for his trust.

The national team has started its preparation camp at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli joined the group with a slight delay. Walid Regragui will hold a press conference next Friday in Oujda to discuss the upcoming deadlines.

Several changes have been made to the list of selected players. Hakim Ziyech is absent, as is Brahim Diaz, injured with Real Madrid. The usual leaders, such as Yassine Bounou, Munir El Kajoui, Nayef Aguerd, Sofyan Amrabat and Youssef En-Nesyri, are present.

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