Morocco’s preparations for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a cautiously positive assessment from former national technical director Nasser Larguet, who believes the Atlas Lions are showing encouraging signs despite lingering concerns over squad depth and game management.
The North African side head into their Group C opener against Brazil after a 1-1 draw with Norway in a friendly match that offered both reassurance and areas for reflection.
While Morocco impressed for long periods, particularly during the first half, Larguet believes there is still work to be done before facing one of the tournament favourites.
His analysis focused on two contrasting halves against Norway. According to Larguet, Morocco produced a well-organised opening period in which they successfully implemented a high-pressing strategy and quickly regained possession when out of the ball.
That approach paid off early when Brahim Diaz scored in the seventh minute, a goal that reflected the style of football the coaching staff is trying to establish.
Morocco’s ability to apply pressure high up the pitch and launch rapid attacking transitions enabled them to create several opportunities during the first half.
However, the former technical director noted that the Atlas Lions were unable to build on their advantage despite creating further chances.
For many Moroccan supporters, the display offered evidence of a team evolving under head coach Mohamed Ouahbi.
Larguet pointed to what he sees as a shift in philosophy, with Morocco increasingly looking to dictate matches rather than sitting deep and relying primarily on counter-attacks.
The tactical setup against Norway reflected that approach. Ismaël Saibari operated in a false-nine role, while Brahim Diaz and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli were deployed in positions designed to exploit spaces between defensive lines.
Morocco’s attacking intent was reflected in their statistics, with the team registering 13 shots, five of which were on target.
Larguet also praised the growing influence of younger players within the squad. He highlighted the inclusion of Ayyoub Bouaddi alongside Neil El Aynaoui and Azzedine Ounahi in midfield as an encouraging sign for the future.
The willingness to trust emerging talent in a high-profile friendly, he suggested, demonstrates the team’s long-term vision as it seeks to remain competitive on the world stage.
Experienced figures also earned recognition. Captain Achraf Hakimi was singled out for his attacking contributions from wide areas, while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou received praise for a crucial save early in the second half that helped Morocco maintain control during a difficult spell.
Despite the positives, Larguet identified several areas that require attention before the clash with Brazil.
Among his concerns are Morocco’s ability to cope with sustained periods of pressure, maintain defensive organisation throughout matches and ensure that substitutes can match the performance levels of the starting eleven.
The second half against Norway, particularly after multiple substitutions and injury disruptions, exposed some of those challenges.
As Morocco prepare to face Brazil in their first Group C match, the assessment suggests a team with clear strengths but one that is still refining aspects of its game.
For African football followers, the signs remain encouraging. Morocco’s technical quality, emerging young talent and experienced leaders provide reasons for optimism.
Yet against elite opposition such as Brazil, maintaining consistency across the full squad could prove just as important as the quality of the starting lineup.
With the World Cup now under way, the Atlas Lions will hope the lessons learned against Norway can help them take another step forward on football’s biggest stage
