FIFA President Backs Morocco for Another Strong World Cup Campaign

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed confidence that Morocco can build on its historic 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign at the 2026 tournament, scheduled to be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June.

In a social media statement, Infantino recalled Morocco’s remarkable performance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where the Atlas Lions became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of the global tournament.

He said Morocco would bring the same passion, determination, and quality to the upcoming competition in North America.

“I look forward to seeing your nation build on that momentum and create more magic on the global stage this summer,” Infantino said.

The FIFA chief also referred to Morocco’s group-stage fixtures against Brazil on June 13, Scotland on June 19, and Haiti on June 24.

FIFA has announced that the official 26-man squad lists for the tournament will be released on June 2, while Morocco has yet to confirm its final squad.

Widely regarded as a football-loving nation, Morocco has continued to strengthen its reputation on the international stage following its historic World Cup run in Qatar. The team also recently secured its second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 50 years.

The Atlas Lions will enter the tournament under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Mohamed Ouahbi.

Speaking in a recent interview, Ouahbi said the technical staff had planned an initial training camp from May 22 to May 26 for players named in the provisional squad, followed by a full preparation camp at the Mohammed VI Football Complex beginning May 29.

“Thankfully, no player is ruled out of the World Cup,” Ouahbi said, adding that efforts were underway to ensure the recovery of injured players ahead of the tournament.

He emphasized that players would only return after receiving full medical clearance and regaining complete physical fitness.