Morocco Recognized as One of the World's Best Football Teams
Boston – French international players have recently praised the remarkable progress made by Moroccan football, asserting that the "Atlas Lions" are now ranked among the best teams globally. This recognition comes just ahead of their crucial quarter-final match in the 2026 World Cup.
Forward Jean-Philippe Mateta highlighted Morocco's current position, noting that they occupy the sixth spot in the FIFA World Ranking. In a statement to the Moroccan News Agency, Mateta remarked, "The Atlas Lions are currently performing exceptionally well, holding the sixth position in the world rankings. Their growth has been impressive, and they are a formidable opponent on the field." He also mentioned his Crystal Palace teammate, Shadi Riyad, calling him a "talented player" and a "close friend," emphasizing that the match's outcome will favor the better-performing team.
Defender Dayot Upamecano echoed these sentiments, describing the Moroccan team as "fantastic" and commending their development since the 2022 World Cup. He stated, "They have significantly progressed since last year, showcasing a style that favors ball possession and individual duels. The Atlas Lions have an effective attacking strategy, having scored numerous goals. We need to be vigilant and cautious in both our defensive and offensive plays as we prepare for this match."
Goalkeeper Ruben Reiser also acknowledged the substantial advancement of the Moroccan squad in recent years, labeling them as a "well-rounded team." Reflecting on Morocco's recent victory over Canada, Reiser noted, "The Atlas Lions displayed defensive resilience in the first half before successfully scoring. We anticipate a challenging quarter-final match and will strive to approach it in the best possible manner."
It is worth mentioning that Morocco and France are set to face off on July 9 at Boston Stadium, with both teams vying for a spot in the semi-finals of the tournament. The anticipation surrounding this match underscores Morocco's rising status in international football, marking them as a key contender on the global stage.
As reported by mapsport.ma.
