Morocco will carry not only their own ambitions but also the hopes of Africa when they take on Brazil in one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday.
Four years after becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, the Atlas Lions return to the global stage determined to prove that their historic run in Qatar was not a one-off achievement but the foundation of a new era for African football.
The clash at MetLife Stadium in the New York metropolitan area pits Africa’s most successful team from the last World Cup against the most decorated nation in World Cup history.
It is a meeting that has captured attention across the globe and could provide an early indication of how far Morocco can go in a tournament that features a record 10 African nations.
Morocco arrive in the United States with confidence high after an impressive build-up to the tournament. Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi believes his side are physically and mentally prepared to face one of football’s traditional giants.
“We are very happy to be here,” said Ouahbi. “We feel that the World Cup is really heating up, so we can’t wait to answer your questions.”
The coach believes the atmosphere within the camp has been overwhelmingly positive despite the loss of key players Abde Ezzalzouli and Nayef Aguerd through injury.
“It’s clear that the atmosphere is positive. We are very confident. We trust in the physical condition of the players, in what we have put in place, and in the principles and values we have instilled.”
Morocco completed their final training session on Friday at Pingry School in New Jersey, where Ouahbi and his technical staff focused on tactical organisation, pressing and building attacks from deep positions.
Replacements Marouane Saâdane and Amine Sebbar have integrated into the squad as the Atlas Lions seek solutions to the absence of two influential players. The coach insists the injuries will not alter Morocco’s identity.
“We won’t change our principles much. We’ve shown good things and we’ll keep showing them by staying true to our principles,” he stressed. “Just because we’re playing our first World Cup match, it doesn’t mean we’ll change everything.”
Much of Morocco’s hopes will again rest on the shoulders of captain Achraf Hakimi, whose leadership and performances have become symbolic of the country’s rise on the global stage.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender is expected to face one of football’s most dangerous attackers in Vinicius Junior, but believes Morocco have prepared thoroughly for the challenge.
“I think everyone knows the Brazilian national team, we know Vinicius’ qualities. I’ve already played against him many times and he’s a great player,” Hakimi said.
“To defend against Vinicius and the other Brazilian players, who are all top-level, you have to defend as a team, with clear ideas.”
Hakimi’s confidence reflects a squad that no longer views itself as an outsider. The right-back pointed to Morocco’s growing reputation and talent pool as reasons for optimism.
“We know Brazil, its history, the quality of its players. But we also have quality. In Africa, they call us the ‘Brazilians of Africa.’ We are talented players and we have our strengths.”
“I believe we are ready to do something important, with confidence and with the support of all Moroccans.”
Brazil enter the tournament among the favourites once again, boasting a squad filled with elite talent from Europe’s top leagues. Yet Morocco have already shown in recent years that they can compete with and defeat football’s biggest names.
The Atlas Lions stunned Belgium, Spain and Portugal during their unforgettable run to the semi-finals in Qatar and now arrive in North America carrying the belief that they can challenge any opponent.
With confidence high, expectations growing and history already made, Morocco now have another chance to show why they remain one of the most exciting teams in world football.
