World Cup 2026: Morocco FA president Lekjaa boosts Atlas Lions’ morale ahead of Brazil showdown

Morocco Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa has stepped up support for the Atlas Lions ahead of their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Brazil, visiting the team’s training camp in New Jersey to encourage the players and technical staff.

The visit comes as Morocco enters the final phase of preparations for the tournament being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Lekjaa met with members of the national team delegation and closely followed training activities as the Atlas Lions continue to fine-tune their plans for one of the biggest matches of their campaign.

The federation chief’s presence at the camp was aimed at boosting the players’ morale and reinforcing the confidence that Moroccan football authorities have in the current squad. He interacted with players and officials, expressing his belief in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level and continue the progress that has transformed Morocco into one of world football’s most respected nations.

With expectations high following the country’s historic achievements in recent years, Lekjaa’s visit served as a reminder of the strong backing the national team enjoys from the federation. Morocco captured global attention at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.

That remarkable run elevated the Atlas Lions to a new level on the international stage and raised hopes that the team can once again challenge the world’s elite at the 2026 edition. Since then, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has continued to invest heavily in the national team setup, youth development and football infrastructure, all aimed at sustaining the country’s growing reputation in global football.

As preparations intensify, the atmosphere within the Moroccan camp remains focused and determined. Players have been working through demanding training sessions in New Jersey as coach Mohamed Wahbi and his technical team put the finishing touches on their tactical plans ahead of the clash with Brazil.

The encounter against the five-time world champions is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening round of the World Cup. Morocco will be eager to begin its campaign on a positive note and prove that its success in Qatar was not a one-off achievement but part of a long-term rise among football’s leading nations.

Lekjaa’s visit reflects the federation’s commitment to providing every possible support for the team as it seeks to make another deep run at the World Cup. His message to the squad was clear: the entire nation believes in them and stands firmly behind them as they prepare to take on one of the tournament favourites.

Morocco and Brazil are set to face off on Saturday at 6:00 PM local time in New Jersey, corresponding to 11:00 PM in Morocco, with the Atlas Lions hoping to launch their World Cup journey with a memorable performance against the South American giants.