The co-hosts return with Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, and a fearless new generation ready to surpass the historic 2022 semi-final run.
Morocco arrive as the team that rewrote African football history in Qatar 2022: the continent's first World Cup semi-finalists. The squad built around Hakim Ziyech, Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou, Sofyan Amrabat, and Youssef En-Nesyri reaches 2026 with most of that core intact. Walid Regragui was sacked in early 2025 and replaced by Mohamed Ouahbi, tasked with maintaining the Atlas Lions' upward trajectory ahead of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup.
Morocco emerged from the group stage unbeaten, showing resilience in a tough opening round. They survived a penalty shootout against Netherlands in the Round of 32, put on a commanding display against Canada in the Round of 16, and bowed out against France in the Quarter-finals. France proved to be a step too far, and Morocco's campaign came to a decisive end in the the quarters.
3won2drawn1lost
10scored6conceded
Eliminated in the group stage.
Achraf Hakimi, 27, is PSG's Moroccan full-back, arguably the world's best in his position. His runs up Morocco's right flank were the source of the 2022 upsets against Spain (Round of 16) and Portugal (quarter-final). He enters 2026 at peak physical form and with real title ambitions.
Conceded in only 4 of 6 matches
Ismael Saibari led Morocco's attack with 3 goals at the 2026 World Cup.
Ouahbi, 52, is a Moroccan manager appointed in 2025 after Walid Regragui's dismissal. A former Wydad Casablanca and RS Berkane coach with deep roots in Moroccan football, he inherits one of Africa's most talented squads and the pressure of sustaining the 2022 semi-final legacy. Leading Morocco at his first World Cup 3 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss under Ouahbi.
