Morocco celebrate a goal during the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Saturday Jun 06, 2026. 13:00
Following an historic semi-final placing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Morocco will once again be placed under immense pressure heading into this year’s showpiece. Here’s a look at the key factors into how Morocco could have a successful World Cup campaign once more.
WC qualification, recent form sheet
The ‘Atlas Lions’, as they’re fondly known, became the first nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During their CAF qualification phase, Morocco boasted a perfect record in Group E by claiming eight wins in eight matches, including a mammoth 5-0 win over Niger on 5 September 2025.
The popular African nation also managed to score 22 goals while conceding just twice as they raced to 24 points in eight matches, signalling their status as one of the most feared nations on the African continent. In addition to their success during the last couple of years, Morocco will go into the tournament as African champions along with recording three wins and one draw in their last four encounters.
Big match temperament
It’s fair to say that Morocco have been thoroughly tested at the highest level of international football, an aspect that will go long in their way of rewriting history.
While Morocco eliminated tournament favourites Spain and Portugal at the 2022 World Cup, the Atlas Lions also recorded a memorable 2-0 win over Belgium in the group stage. Having crossed out major names before, Morocco will have the added confidence to take on top level opponents yet again.
Spine of the team remains
All of the above makes for a nation that is currently battle tested among the world’s elite. Largely considered as a serious dark horse for the upcoming showpiece, Morocco will also enter the World Cup with the spine of their big name players intact.
The likes of Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou, Sofyan Amrabat, Brahim Diaz and Noussair Mazraoui have all played a major role in Morocco’s earnings during the last couple of years as they form the embryo of the squad with elite experience under their belt.