Morocco’s 19-year wait for the World Cup return is over! The Atlas Lions beat Cote d’Ivoire 2-0 in Abidjan Saturday to sail through to the 2018 edition in Russia.

Morocco’s last appearance at the biggest football stage was in 1998 in France where they reached the round of 16.

They join Nigeria, Egypt, Senegal and Tunisia as Africa’s representatives at the global event which takes place after every four years.

The North Africans headed into the match atop of group C with nine points – a point clear of the Elephants and only needed a draw to seal the qualification for a fifth time.

However, they went for all the three points – making a meal of the hosts who were expected to give a fight of their lives to get a win.

Nabil Darir broke the ice in the 25th with a glancing header away from goalkeeper Sylvian Gbohouo for a 1-0 lead.

Skipper Mehdi Elmouttaqui doubled the lead at the half hour mark with a cheeky flick from inside to seal the fate of the 2015 African Champions.

The loss means Belgian coach Marc Milmots has only won one competitive game in nine overall outings since taking over in March this year.

His equal opposite Herve Renard on the other hand will continue to bask in the glory of a series of successes in Africa.

The Frenchman has so far won two AFONs with Zambia and Cote d’Ivoire and today qualified Morocco to the World Cup.