World Cup History
Morocco has 9 World Cup appearances (1970, 1986, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, 2022) and arrives at 2026 with their greatest achievement as a starting point. In Mexico 1986, Morocco became the first African team to advance from a World Cup group stage. But it was in Qatar 2022 where history reached its highest point.
In Qatar, the Atlas Lions defeated Belgium (2-0), drew with Croatia (0-0), and beat Canada (2-1) to advance as group leaders. In the Round of 16, Morocco eliminated Spain on penalties. In the quarterfinals, another penalty victory over Portugal. In the semifinals, they fell to France 0-2. In the third-place match, they lost 1-2 to Croatia. A performance that changed the history of African football.
Key Players
Achraf Hakimi
Right Back 路 Paris Saint-Germain
Morocco's captain and one of the world's best right backs. Hakimi is an explosive player with extraordinary attacking ability: his pace, crosses, and scoring ability make him a constant threat. Raised in Real Madrid's academy, he has shone at Inter and now at PSG.
Hakim Ziyech
Right Winger / Attacking Midfielder 路 Galatasaray
Morocco's creative brain, Ziyech is a player with a prodigious left foot and special vision of play. He has a career spanning Ajax, Chelsea, and now Galatasaray. Despite his sometimes tense relationship with the Moroccan federation, his talent is undeniable and indispensable for the team.
Youssef En-Nesyri
Centre Forward 路 Fenerbahce
Morocco's first-choice striker is a forward with exceptional aerial ability. In Qatar 2022 he scored crucial goals for the Atlas Lions, including the goal against Portugal in the quarterfinals. His heading ability and goalscoring instinct are lethal.
Sofyan Amrabat
Defensive Midfielder 路 Al-Batae
Morocco's defensive engine at Qatar 2022, Amrabat was considered by many the best defensive midfielder of the tournament. His ball-winning ability, physical endurance, and tactical intelligence were fundamental to Morocco's historic run to the semifinals.
Bono (Yassine Bounou)
Goalkeeper 路 Al-Hilal
The best goalkeeper in Morocco's recent history, Bono was one of the heroes of Qatar 2022 with his saves against Spain and Portugal in penalty shootouts. Winner of the Zamora Trophy with Sevilla in 2022-23, he is a world-class goalkeeper recognized throughout Europe.
Path to Qualification
Morocco qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the CAF (Confederation of African Football) qualification process. CAF distributes 9 World Cup places among its 54 members through a group stage format with the best teams qualifying directly. Morocco, as one of Africa's highest-level teams, has been consistent in continental qualifying.
Qualification for 2026 reinforces Morocco's status as African football's current top power. With the support of their large European diaspora and the enthusiasm generated by Qatar 2022, Morocco arrives at the tournament with the ambition and experience of a team that has already proven it can compete against any opponent in the world.
Match Schedule
Morocco's matches at the 2026 World Cup will be confirmed by FIFA after the official draw. Check back soon for the complete schedule with dates, venues, and kick-off times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far did Morocco go at Qatar 2022?
Morocco reached the semifinals of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach that stage in World Cup history. Along the way they eliminated Belgium (2-0), Spain (penalties), and Portugal (1-0) before falling to France (0-2) in the semifinals.
Who is Morocco's captain?
Achraf Hakimi is Morocco's captain. The Paris Saint-Germain right back is considered one of the world's best players in his position and the undisputed leader of the Atlas Lions. Raised in Real Madrid's academy, Hakimi embodies the new generation of African football.
Why was the Qatar 2022 World Cup so special for Morocco?
Qatar 2022 was historic for Morocco because they became the first African and Arab nation to reach World Cup semifinals. Their campaign united the entire Arab and African world, with fans celebrating in the streets of Casablanca, Dakar, Baghdad, and European diasporas. It was an unprecedented moment of collective pride for the Arab and African world.
How did Morocco qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Morocco qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the CAF (Confederation of African Football) qualification process, which distributes 9 World Cup places among its 54 members. Morocco is one of the most consistent African teams in continental qualifying.