Morocco has officially announced its full 26-player roster for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the nation's seventh appearance at this prestigious tournament. The Atlas Lions made history four years ago by becoming the first African team to reach the semifinals, a remarkable achievement that still stands as their best performance in World Cup history, achieved during the event held in Qatar.
Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi revealed the squad earlier today, with notable inclusion of Achraf Hakimi, who serves as the captain and boasts an impressive 95 international caps. The Paris Saint-Germain right-back is recognized as one of the most pivotal figures in the squad. Other key players include Brahim Díaz from Real Madrid, Bilal El Khannouss of VfB Stuttgart, Ayoub El Kaabi from Olympiacos, and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, currently affiliated with Al-Hilal.
Squad Breakdown and Group Stage Challenges
The squad is well-balanced across all positions, comprising talented players ready to make an impact on the world stage. The goalkeepers include Yassine Bounou, Munir El Kajou from Renaissance Berkane, and Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti of AS FAR. In defense, Morocco will rely on talents such as Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United), Nayef Aguerd (Olympique Marseille), and several others, ensuring a robust backline. The midfield is anchored by players like Sofyan Amrabat (Real Betis) and Azzedine Ounahi (Girona FC), while the attacking front features the likes of Brahim Díaz and Ayoub El Kaabi, who will be crucial in converting opportunities into goals.
Morocco's journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup began in a qualifying group that initially included Niger, Tanzania, Zambia, the Republic of the Congo, and Eritrea. However, Eritrea withdrew from the competition due to political concerns, which left Morocco as the clear frontrunner. The Atlas Lions delivered an outstanding performance, winning all their group matches and finishing with a perfect record, securing 24 points and a formidable goal difference of 22-2. Striker Ayoub El Kaabi emerged as the top scorer for Morocco during the qualifiers, netting four goals. Following the resignation of coach Walid Regragui in March 2026, Mohamed Ouahbi stepped in as the new head coach just months before the tournament.
In the World Cup, Morocco is placed in Group C and will kick off its campaign against Brazil on June 13 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Following this match, they will face Scotland on June 19 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before concluding the group stage against Haiti on June 24 in Atlanta, Georgia. The competition is fierce, as the two group winners and the eight best third-placed teams will advance to the knockout stage, making every match critical for the Atlas Lions.
As reported by heavy.com.
