No team from Africa or the Arab world had ever reached a World Cup semifinal — until Morocco 2022. The Atlas Lions return in 2026 under Mohamed Ouahbi, featuring Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz in the most talented squad in their history.
The Greatest Story in World Cup History
Morocco's 2022 World Cup run was the tournament's defining story. Under Walid Regragui, they finished above Croatia and Belgium in the group stage. Then came the knockouts.
Round of 16: Beat Spain 0–0 after extra time, won on penalties. Quarterfinal: Beat Portugal 1–0 — eliminating Ronaldo. Semifinal: Lost to France 2–0. Third place: Lost to Croatia 2–1.
For 2026, Mohamed Ouahbi takes over as head coach. Notable: Youssef En-Nesyri is OUT of the squad, replaced by the brilliant Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz. Hakimi and the core of 2022 remain.
Key Players for 2026
| Player | Position | Role & Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Achraf Hakimi | Right Back / Captain | PSG's Moroccan captain; one of the best full-backs in the world — speed, delivery, and big-game mentality |
| Brahim Díaz | Attacking Mid | Real Madrid's technical creator; elegant on the ball and capable of the unexpected — replaces En-Nesyri in the key role |
| Hakim Ziyech | Right Winger | Silky on the ball with a wicked left foot; veteran of the 2022 run and still capable of the spectacular |
| Sofyan Amrabat | Defensive Mid | Man United's combative midfielder; the anchor of Morocco's defensive shape |
| Bono (Yassine Bounou) | Goalkeeper | The hero of 2022 — his penalty saves against Spain were iconic; still world-class between the posts |
The 2026 Challenge
Morocco are in Group C with Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Getting out of a group containing Brazil is the first challenge — but given what they have already done, nothing is impossible.
The core of the 2022 team is together, now with 4 years of additional European experience. Morocco are no longer a surprise — they are expected to compete. Maintaining that level while managing expectations is the new challenge.
Follow Morocco's 2026 World Cup campaign with full squad news, tactical analysis, and match previews. ⚽
Frequently Asked Questions
Morocco reached the semifinals — the best result ever by an African or Arab nation. They beat Spain and Portugal before losing to France.
Morocco is in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti — a tough group with the 5-time champions.
Achraf Hakimi (captain, PSG), Brahim Díaz (Real Madrid), Hakim Ziyech, and goalkeeper Bono lead the Atlas Lions.
Mohamed Ouahbi, who took over from Walid Regragui. Notable change: Youssef En-Nesyri is out, replaced by Brahim Díaz.