Morocco Ready to Repeat World Cup Magic
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Morocco demonstrated strong form in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, winning all eight group matches with a 22-2 goal difference.
- The Atlas Lions aim to replicate their historic 2022 World Cup semi-final run, building on tactical discipline and attacking prowess.
- Under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the team utilizes wing attacks and features key players like Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi.
Morocco is showcasing impressive form as they head into the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, having secured victories in all eight of their group stage matches. The team scored an impressive 22 goals while conceding only two, signaling their strength and readiness.
Hakimi is Morocco's captain and one of the best wing-backs in the world after helping PSG win various championships this season.
This performance builds on their historic achievement in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they became the first African team to reach the semi-finals. Their journey in Qatar saw them top Group F, which included strong opponents like Croatia, Belgium, and Canada, before defeating Spain and Portugal in the knockout stages.
The team's success in Qatar was largely attributed to the tactical acumen of coach Walid Regragui, who took charge just three months before the tournament. He instilled high tactical discipline in the squad. Now under the guidance of Mohamed Ouahbi, who previously managed Morocco's U20 team, the Atlas Lions are known for their organized defense and dangerous attacking play, often employing a 4-3-3 formation.
Brahim Dรญaz is the team's main creative weapon, capable of playing in several attacking positions.
Ouahbi's tactics emphasize wing attacks, with fullbacks like Achraf Hakimi and Youssef Belammari frequently involved in the offense. The midfield and wing selections provide tactical variety, complemented by quality forwards such as Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi. Diaz, a Real Madrid star, is a key asset, noted for his dribbling, creativity, and finishing ability. Since his debut in March last year, Diaz has scored eight goals and provided two assists in 14 appearances, highlighting his significant impact on the team's attack.
El Kaabi has performed excellently with Olympiacos since 2023 and is currently one of Morocco's most prolific strikers.
Despite an injury, defender Nayef Aguerd has been included in the squad for upcoming matches in the United States. Several experienced players, including Aguerd, Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, and midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, remain integral to the team's strategy.
Amrabat is a defensive midfielder.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.