13.11.2025 14:25
source: StadiumDB.com; author: Jakub Ducki
Grand Stade de Tanger has undergone an impressive transformation. The friendly match between Morocco and Mozambique, played before a sold-out crowd, will confirm that Morocco’s sports infrastructure has reached the highest international standards.
Perfect pitch ahead of Atlas Lions’ match
On the eve of Morocco’s friendly against Mozambique, aerial photos of Grand Stade de Tanger confirmed the outstanding condition of the pitch. This first full-scale test before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations highlights the meticulous work carried out in recent weeks to ensure a surface that meets FIFA and CAF standards.
The natural turf has been carefully maintained by a specialized company. Known for its density and shine, the pitch now meets the most rigorous quality norms, with maintenance practices rarely seen elsewhere in Africa.
At the heart of this achievement lies an innovative subsurface ventilation system, based on technology used in major European stadiums. Underground fans regulate temperature and humidity with millimetric precision, preventing fungal diseases and maintaining a uniform, resilient surface regardless of weather conditions.
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Recognition from FIFA and international certification
The exceptional quality of the pitch has not gone unnoticed. During his recent visit, the FIFA President praised its condition, calling it a symbol of Moroccan expertise in sports facility management. A Portuguese company specializing in turf certification also gave the Grand Stade de Tanger its highest rating after an inspection supervised directly by FIFA.
Behind this success stands the Moroccan company Somecotrad, now recognized as a national leader in stadium maintenance. Supported by Spanish engineers, its team of local experts has focused on domestic training and innovation. The company’s work is part of Morocco’s broader plan to modernize sports infrastructure ahead of AFCON 2025 and the 2030 World Cup.
In the days leading up to the match, every blade of grass is monitored. Engineers track temperature, humidity, and density in real time, while a cooling system distributes cold air through underground ducts. Precision mowing gives the turf a silky finish, and the combination of biological care, modern drainage, and advanced equipment keeps it fresh and durable under any conditions.
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Sold-out crowd
The Morocco–Mozambique match, scheduled for Friday, November 14 at 8:00 p.m., will be played before a capacity crowd. The organizing committee announced that all 75,600 seats at the Grand Stade de Tanger have been sold.
Officials highlighted the huge enthusiasm of Moroccan fans, whose support for the Atlas Lions continues to grow ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations. The organizers thanked supporters for their unconditional backing and urged them to follow safety and organizational guidelines.
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Record-breaking roof and cutting-edge technology
The renovated Grand Stade de Tanger draws attention not only for its pitch but also for its remarkable engineering. As reported by Spanish media, including The Objective, the stadium has become a symbol of Moroccan excellence and expertise in sports infrastructure management.
The installation of a new 55,000 m² roof in just 69 days set a world record, demonstrating the precision and skill of Moroccan construction teams. The structure was designed to adapt to northern Morocco’s climate while ensuring optimal natural lighting.
The renovation also expanded the stadium’s capacity to 75,600 spectators, removed the athletics track, and introduced a hybrid turf system. It now features state-of-the-art lighting that meets FIFA’s international broadcast standards, as well as a backup power system ensuring uninterrupted operation in case of outages.
