Morocco will enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup determined to prove that their remarkable run to the semi-finals four years ago was no one-off achievement, as the Atlas Lions prepare for a demanding Group C campaign featuring Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.
While Brazil are widely regarded as favourites to top the group, Morocco arrive in North America carrying the hopes of a continent after becoming the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals in 2022.
The Atlas Lions face an immediate test of their credentials when they take on Brazil in their opening match on 13 June.
The outcome of that fixture could have a significant impact on the race for qualification to the knockout stages.
Morocco’s rise over recent years has transformed perceptions of the national team on the global stage.
After their historic achievement in Qatar, expectations have increased considerably.
The North Africans are no longer viewed as surprise contenders but as a side capable of competing with some of the world’s leading football nations.
The team’s strengths are built around tactical organisation, discipline and the ability to transition quickly from defence to attack.
Much of Morocco’s threat comes from wide areas, with captain Achraf Hakimi continuing to play a pivotal role in the team’s attacking approach.
According to assessments of the group, Morocco’s structure and organisation remain among their greatest assets.
However, concerns persist about their ability to convert chances consistently, particularly against opponents who defend deep and limit space in attacking areas.
That issue could become decisive in a group where margins are expected to be extremely small.
Five-time world champions Brazil enter Group C as the team many expect to finish first.
The South Americans possess significant attacking quality, with Vinícius Júnior highlighted as one of their standout players heading into the tournament.
Brazil’s ability to create opportunities and dominate matches makes them favourites not only for the group but also among the leading contenders for the World Cup itself.
Yet observers have identified vulnerabilities in defensive transitions, an area Morocco and the other teams in the group may attempt to exploit.
The opening encounter between Brazil and Morocco therefore promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the first round.
Scotland return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence and are expected to provide stiff competition for qualification places.
The Scots are built around a hardworking midfield and collective team ethic, with captain Andy Robertson regarded as one of their key figures.
However, questions remain about their lack of recent World Cup experience and the absence of an elite-level striker capable of consistently deciding matches at the highest level.
Haiti, meanwhile, enter the tournament as the outsiders of the group but could still influence the final standings.
Their pace on the counter-attack and unpredictable attacking play make them a potentially dangerous opponent. Much of that threat is expected to come through Duckens Nazon.
At the same time, concerns have been raised about Haiti’s defensive stability and squad depth, factors that could become increasingly important as the tournament progresses.
While Brazil may be viewed as favourites, many observers believe the contest between Morocco and Scotland could ultimately determine who joins the South Americans in the knockout rounds.
For Morocco, the objective is straightforward: build on the momentum generated in 2022 and establish themselves among the world’s elite once again.
With a talented squad, growing international reputation and the confidence gained from their previous World Cup exploits, the Atlas Lions have every reason to believe they can advance from Group C.
