MOROCCO will end a hiatus stretching back more than four years when they play France at the Parc Des Sports, Avignon, on Saturday, February 22.
The North African nation’s last outing was in October 2019, when Nigeria prevailed 38-10 in the Middle East Africa Championship.
The forthcoming fixture will help celebrate a new partnership with the French Federation which, in aiming to further the development of the game in Morocco, will also create opportunities for players, coaches and match officials, with the aim of raising overall standards.
The collaboration marks further Africa development initiatives after Les Bleus’ pioneering trip to Kenya in December 2023.
Former France women’s coach Olivier Janzac will be at the helm of Morocco, whose side will be selected from their five clubs. The squad will convene for training on Saturday, February 8.
Yamina Abdesselem, president of the Fédération Marocaine de Rugby à XIII, said: “We are proud to take this historic step by facing the France national team.
“This match symbolises the start of a fruitful collaboration for the development and promotion of Rugby League in Morocco, particularly among young men and women. We are determined to grow these disciplines and inspire a new generation of players.”
France, under Maxime Gresèque, will select from domestically-based players.
French Federation president Dominique Baloup said: “As a major European Rugby League nation, France are pleased to promote this match against Morocco.
“It is a first concrete step which will follow with others for women’s and youth Rugby League.”
