Morocco Capable of Defeating France, Says Former International El Khalej

Former Moroccan international Tahar El Khalej expressed confidence in the Atlas Lions' ability to defeat France in the upcoming 2026 World Cup quarter-final match. El Khalej, who represented Morocco in the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, believes the current national team has evolved significantly and is capable of competing with top global teams.

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The Moroccan team is among the strongest participating in this tournament, and national football is developing significantly, so our chances are strong.

"The Moroccan team is among the strongest participating in this tournament, and national football is developing significantly, so our chances are strong," El Khalej stated. He stressed that the team will enter the match with confidence, not with the mindset that France is superior. He highlighted the players' readiness and focus as key strengths that enable Morocco to challenge any opponent.

El Khalej urged his compatriots to maintain concentration, noting that the technical staff, led by Mohamed Wehbi, is doing excellent work. He acknowledged France's star-studded squad and deep bench but believes Morocco possesses the necessary qualities to advance. "Why not? The Moroccan team has previously defeated big teams, but we must think about each match individually," he said when asked about the possibility of winning the title.

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Why not? The Moroccan team has previously defeated big teams, but we must think about each match individually.

Looking ahead to the match, El Khalej expressed a specific hope: "I just hope that the French President Emmanuel Macron does not come down to the pitch again as he did in the 'Qatar 2022 World Cup,' and that the match takes place in a sporting atmosphere away from any external pressures; also, the refereeing must be fair."

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I just hope that the French President Emmanuel Macron does not come down to the pitch again as he did in the 'Qatar 2022 World Cup,' and that the match takes place in a sporting atmosphere away from any external pressures; also, the refereeing must be fair.