Former Morocco international Tahar El Khalej has backed the Atlas Lions to secure a comfortable victory over Haiti in their final Group stage match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also warning against complacency in what he expects to be a physically demanding encounter.
Morocco head into the fixture in strong position after collecting four points from two matches.
A goalless draw with Brazil was followed by a 2-1 win over Scotland, results that leave them level on points with Brazil but sitting second in the group due to goal difference.
Haiti, by contrast, have already been eliminated from the competition after suffering two defeats and failing to pick up a point.
Despite that, El Khalej has cautioned that their opponents could still pose problems if Morocco are not careful, particularly in transition.
The former defender believes Morocco have shown clear progress in their tactical structure, especially in how they move from defensive phases into attack. However, he also pointed to a lack of efficiency in the final third.
He noted that Morocco have consistently created high-quality chances against both Brazil and Scotland, but have sometimes been let down by rushed decision-making and poor concentration in front of goal.
El Khalej praised the team’s collective pressing and the effectiveness of their wide players, highlighting the role of full-backs in quick transitions and the use of wingers operating between the lines as key strengths in the Moroccan system.
However, he warned that Haiti could still threaten on the break, particularly in situations where space is left behind Morocco’s defensive line. With the pressure off their shoulders, the Haitian side may look to play freely and exploit any lapses in concentration.
He stressed that an early goal would be crucial for Morocco, allowing them to control the rhythm of the match and avoid becoming exposed defensively.
The former international also drew attention to the physical demands placed on the squad, noting that several players have already completed two high-intensity matches in challenging weather conditions.
With fatigue potentially becoming a factor, he suggested that head coach Mohamed Ouahbi may consider rotating parts of his starting XI.
However, he also expects Morocco to maintain a strong competitive edge, with key players such as Sofyan Amrabat, Soufiane Rahimi, Anass Salah-Eddine, and Ayoub El Kaabi likely to play important roles.
As Morocco prepare for their final group outing, the expectation is firmly on them to finish the job and secure progression.
