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May 19, 2026
2026 World Cup: Surprise in Morocco’s Squad
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No Ziyech, No Boufal. Ouahbi bets on youth — but will it pay off?
In just a few days, the eyes of the world will turn to North America for the kickoff of the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup 2026. This isn’t just another tournament — it’s set to be the biggest football festival in the planet’s history!
1) Key Facts to Know
The tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026, and the drama and high-stakes clashes will run all the way to the grand final on July 19.
Host nations: United States – Canada – Mexico
Opening match: June 11, 2026, at the legendary Estadio Azteca (Mexico)
The Final: July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey
As the countdown begins to the world’s most anticipated event, the 2026 World Cup, football fever is once again sweeping through Arab and Moroccan cities. From Tangier to La Güera, from every alleyway and family home to the global stadiums across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, one question is on everyone’s mind: Can the Atlas Lions repeat the miracle of Qatar 2022 — and go even further this time?
The dream lives on… with a new format and an even bigger challenge!
For Moroccan fans, simply putting on a respectable show is no longer enough. After their historic run to fourth place, the world now sees Morocco as a true football powerhouse that demands respect.
The 2026 World Cup arrives with a complex new format: 48 teams and a Round of 32 added to the knockout stage. But for Moroccan determination, nothing is impossible.
Between Regragui’s tactical plans and the unwavering support of loyal fans, the Lions have everything they need to get out of the group stage and once again stun the world in the knockouts.
2) Hakimi and Diaz Headline Morocco’s Squad for the 2026 World Cup
Mohamed Ouahbi, head coach of the Moroccan national team, has unveiled the official list of players who will represent the Atlas Lions at this summer’s World Cup.
Mohamed Ouahbi has named a 26-man squad plus three reserves for the 2026 World Cup.
Rising star Ayoub Bouaddi earns his first-ever call-up.
Morocco, who finished fourth at the last edition, have been drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.
On Tuesday, May 26, Morocco’s head coach Mohamed Ouahbi announced his 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026™️. The Atlas Lions are set to compete in their seventh World Cup finals, where they will face Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in Group C.
Ouahbi, who took charge of the Moroccan national team last March following former coach Walid Regragui, has kept his faith in the core stars who made history by reaching the 2022 World Cup semi-finals. Leading the squad is Achraf Hakimi, who is set to play in the UEFA Champions League final this Saturday, May 30, with Paris Saint-Germain.
Ouahbi’s squad also includes Yassine Jassim, who played a key role in Morocco’s triumph at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, Chile 2025™️, along with Ayoub Bouaddi, who receives his first-ever senior international call-up with the Atlas Lions.
Brahim Diaz, who shone at the most recent Africa Cup of Nations, also features in Ouahbi’s list. As for the goalkeeping position, the young coach has put his trust in Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti, who reached the CAF Champions League final this season with AS FAR.
Sofiane Boufal, however, did not make the cut, despite being part of the Moroccan squad’s training camp in May. Addressing the decision at his press conference today, Mohamed Ouahbi said:
“Yes, he would have deserved to be here if I could have called up 30 or 40 players. From the start, I was honest with him and told him there is heavy competition for his position. Of course, he remains an excellent player.”
3) Morocco’s Fixtures: Where and When? The Full Schedule
The Atlas Lions will play all three of their group-stage matches in the United States as part of Group C. Due to the time difference, every match will kick off at 11:00 PM Rabat time.
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Match 1: Brazil vs. Morocco
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 11:00 PM Rabat time | 6:00 PM local time in New York
Stadium: MetLife Stadium – New York/New Jersey
Capacity: 82,500
Why it matters: This is Morocco’s opening game of the World Cup, and it comes against five-time champions Brazil. A positive result in this heavyweight clash would give the Lions a huge psychological boost in the race for qualification.
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Match 2: Scotland vs. Morocco
Date: Friday, June 19, 2026
Time: 11:00 PM Rabat time | 6:00 PM local time in Boston
Stadium: Gillette Stadium – Boston, Massachusetts
Capacity: 65,000
Why it matters: This game is widely seen as the decisive turning point for qualification. Scotland are known for their physicality and direct style of play. A win here would put Morocco firmly on track for the Round of 32.
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Match 3: Morocco vs. Haiti
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Time: 11:00 PM Rabat time | 6:00 PM local time in Atlanta
Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Atlanta, Georgia
Capacity: 71,000
Why it matters: On paper, this is the most winnable match in the group. A victory would officially secure a spot in the Round of 32 without relying on other results. It could also be a chance to give some of the younger players minutes on the world stage.
4)Tickets and Official Links
Tickets for 2026 World Cup matches are sold exclusively through the official FIFA website during the “Last-Minute Sales” phases.
For Moroccan supporters, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has secured a dedicated allocation of tickets for the national team’s matches. These tickets are only available via pre-registration, and eligibility is linked to purchasing a flight with Royal Air Maroc
5) More Than Football: A Jersey Woven with Identity and Culture
#DimaMaghrib #AtlasLions
This World Cup isn’t just about matches and tactics — it’s also a stage to showcase identity and culture. And that’s exactly what the new Moroccan national team jersey achieves, making waves right now across social media.
The white away kit was designed as a true work of art celebrating Moroccan generosity and hospitality — Le Joud. It features golden geometric patterns inspired by our authentic heritage, elevated by ancestral Tifinagh script on the back.
It’s a captivating blend that fuses the fragrance of history with the spirit of modernity, making it a must-have for every supporter proud of their roots.
6) World Cup Fever at Home: Togetherness, Passion, and Moroccan _Joud_
The World Cup: More Than a Match — A Moroccan Family Ritual
Watching the World Cup isn’t just 90 minutes on the pitch. It’s a family ritual, deeply woven into Moroccan culture.
It’s relatives and friends gathered around the same table, where the referee’s whistle blends with the sound of tea pouring into glasses, and the rich aroma of coffee fills the house before kickoff.
It’s the passionate chants of “Dima Maghrib” echoing off the walls with every attack.
It’s that spirit of Joud — generosity and hospitality — that drives us to open our doors and share every moment of joy and tension with loved ones.
The World Cup is the perfect excuse to come together and reignite that sense of solidarity and pride that has always set us apart.
7) Traveling to the U.S. for the World Cup? Take a Piece of Morocco With You
If you’re among the lucky fans heading to the stands to support the national team, you have a unique chance to be an ambassador for Moroccan culture and our legendary hospitality.
YAC SHOP offers five authentic, lightweight, and meaningful gifts that will leave a lasting memory for your friends and family:
The “Dima Maghrib” Gift Box – Perfect for Travelers
This box includes :
- 60ml Culinary Argan Oil: Morocco’s liquid gold
- 350g Amlou: Traditional almond, honey & argan spread
- 100g Orange Blossom Green Tea: A uniquely floral twist
- 125g Rosemary Honey: Authentic taste from the Atlas Mountains
- 1g Pure Saffron: The world’s most precious spice
Each product tells a story from north to south of Morocco. Being an ambassador during the World Cup means sharing the best of who we are: warm hospitality, authentic flavors, and rich traditions.
Order before you fly:
WhatsApp : 212610486218
48-hour delivery available across all Moroccan cities
