A recent ESPN report ranks Morocco among the top 15 contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, placing the Atlas Lions 9th worldwide just 100 days before the tournament kicks off in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
The report highlights Morocco’s impressive rise since reaching the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup. The Atlas Lions aim to prove that their previous achievement was no accident, backed by a flawless qualifying campaign with eight wins from eight matches.
Morocco boasts standout players such as Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub El Kaabi in attack, alongside Achraf Hakimi, recognized as one of the world’s top attacking full-backs. The team also benefits from an experienced midfield competing in Europe’s top leagues, providing depth and tactical versatility.
According to the ranking, Morocco sits 9th globally, ahead of strong football nations like Belgium and Croatia. This positioning strengthens Morocco’s international standing, although the team faces challenging opponents in the group stage of the 2026 tournament.
With a balanced squad, top-performing stars, and solid qualification results, Morocco enters the 2026 World Cup as a serious contender, continuing its rise in global football rankings.
