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Rabat – France head coach Didier Deschamps has named Morocco among the teams that could make a strong run at the 2026 World Cup, placing the Atlas Lions alongside some of the biggest names in world football.
Speaking to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Deschamps listed several countries he believes will be serious contenders in the tournament.
He mentioned Spain under Luis de la Fuente, Germany because of their football tradition and player quality, England under Thomas Tuchel, Portugal, Argentina, and Brazil.
He then added Morocco to the list, saying the Atlas Lions continue to improve and should not be ignored.
His comments are another sign of the respect Morocco has earned on the international stage.
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The national team is no longer seen as only an outsider or a surprise team. After reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Morocco proved it could compete with the strongest nations in the world.
That historic run changed the way many people look at Moroccan football. The Atlas Lions defeated big European teams, showed strong defensive discipline, and played with confidence under pressure. Since then, expectations around the team have continued to grow.
Morocco also have a strong squad with players competing at the highest level in Europe. Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Nayef Aguerd, Sofyan Amrabat, Brahim Diaz, and other key names give the team experience, quality, and balance. T
Morocco will play in Group C at the 2026 World Cup alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Their campaign will begin with a difficult match against Brazil on June 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The opening game will be a major test, but it will also be a chance for Morocco to show that their 2022 success was not a one-time story.
With more experience, more confidence, and growing international respect, the Atlas Lions enter the tournament with real ambition.
