On a December night in 2022, long before the final whistle blew in Qatar, the main square of Marrakech, Jemaa el-Fnaa, was already alive with the sound of drums, songs, and chants. By defeating Portugal, Morocco had just become the first African nation to reach a World Cup semifinal, sparking nationwide celebrations across Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez. Four years later, Moroccan fans find themselves dreaming again, this time of an opportunity to test themselves against Brazil on the grandest stage.
The upcoming clash between Brazil and Morocco is drawing considerable interest, and for good reason. Over the last four years, the Atlas Lions have consistently demonstrated that their historic run in Qatar—which included victories over Belgium, Spain, and Portugal—was no fluke. Coincidentally, Morocco is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside two of those European opponents, Spain and Portugal.
Morocco's recent football journey has not been without drama. Earlier this year, they were involved in a highly controversial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat. Their opponents, Senegal, temporarily walked off the pitch in protest after a goal was disallowed following a VAR review. While Senegal eventually returned to finish the match and secure the victory on the pitch, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) subsequently stripped Senegal of the title due to their walkout, awarding the trophy to Morocco. Although it ended a 50-year AFCON title drought for Morocco, it was a victory marred by controversy.
On the pitch, however, Morocco remains a highly competitive side. Achraf Hakimi enters the tournament on the back of his second consecutive Champions League title with Paris Saint-Germain, while the addition of Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz has significantly bolstered the attack. Veteran goalkeeper Yassine Bounou remains a reliable presence in goal.
However, new head coach Mohammed Ouahbi faces some selection dilemmas. Key defensive pillar Nayef Aguerd and forward Abde Ezzalzouli have both been ruled out of the tournament due to injuries, presenting a significant setback for the squad.
Despite these setbacks, the rapid rise of Moroccan football is the result of systematic, long-term investment and institutional planning. A key element of their strategy has been scouting and recruiting European-born players of Moroccan descent, such as Hakimi, Diaz, and Sofyan Amrabat. This approach has yielded impressive results across all levels, including Morocco's first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup title last year. Following that success, U-20 coach Mohammed Ouahbi was promoted to lead the senior national team, succeeding Walid Regragui.
Beyond the pitch, Morocco is positioning itself as the central hub of African football. The country is investing heavily in infrastructure, with projects including the construction of a 115,000-seat stadium in Benslimane, near Casablanca, which is being positioned as a potential venue for the 2030 World Cup final. An estimated $5 to $6 billion is currently being funneled into upgrading stadiums and transport networks across Rabat, Fez, Tangier, Marrakech, and Agadir.
Ultimately, however, football fans remember Morocco most for the vibrant, entertaining style of play they showcased in Qatar. As they prepare to face Brazil—a nation historically synonymous with beautiful football—the Atlas Lions will be eager to show that they can compete with the very best.