Paris Olympics: Footballer Soufiane Rahimi sets record as Morocco’s all-time top scorer

Paris Olympics: Footballer Soufiane Rahimi sets record as Morocco’s all-time top scorer
Photo: Soufiane Rahimi in 2021 / Source: Creative Commons/Adilrajaoui 

Moroccan footballer Soufiane Rahimi made history at the Paris Olympics this week becoming the country’s all-time top scorer for the national team. As of July 31st, Rahimi had notched four goals during the tournament surpassing the previous record of three goals held by Ahmed Faras achieved at the 1972 Munich Olympics.

The history-making goal occurred in a match against Iraq, which Morocco won 3-0. Rahimi also scored two goals in the controversial game against Argentina, which erupted in chaos after a group of Morocco fans attacked the pitch, causing the game to be halted for more than an hour.

Morocco eventually beat Argentina 2-1 following a Video Assistant Referee review of a goal made by Argentina’s Cristian Medina. That goal was disqualified due to an offside call.

Rahimi’s strong performance puts him at the top of the Paris Olympics scoring charts elevating the status of the 28-year-old player.

Rahimi began playing professionally for Raja CA before being sent on loan to Etoile de Casablanca. He then returned to his first team, helping them win the 2018 and 2021 CAF Confederation Cup and the 2019-20 Arab Club Champions Cup. He now plays as a forward for UAE Pro League club Al Ain along with the Moroccan national team.

Rahimi and his teammates will face the United States in the men’s quarter-finals Olympic match scheduled for Friday, August 2nd.

Great! You’ve successfully signed up.

Welcome back! You've successfully signed in.

You've successfully subscribed to MAGHREB INSIDER.

Success! Check your email for magic link to sign-in.

Success! Your billing info has been updated.

Your billing was not updated.