World Cup 2026:Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi says Atlas Lions “fear no one” ahead of Brazil clash

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has declared his side “fear no one” as they prepare to face Brazil in their opening Group C match at the 2026 World Cup on Saturday night.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, June 12, alongside captain Achraf Hakimi, Ouahbi outlined Morocco’s ambition and confidence on the eve of one of their biggest group-stage tests.

He said it was both an honour and a major responsibility to lead the national team at a World Cup, stressing the importance of representing Moroccan supporters on football’s biggest stage.

“It is an honor and a great responsibility to lead this team in a World Cup. We have a talented generation and we are aware of what we represent for the Moroccan people,” he said.

Turning his attention to Brazil, Ouahbi acknowledged the quality of their opponents but insisted Morocco would not approach the match with fear or hesitation.

“Brazil remains a great nation with exceptional players. But we have progressed since 2022, we are better organized, and we are not coming here as tourists. We fear no one.”

The coach highlighted collective discipline as a key factor in the match, emphasising that Morocco would need to operate as a unified unit both defensively and offensively to compete with the five-time world champions.

He stressed that organisation, teamwork and fighting spirit would be essential if Morocco are to contain Brazil’s attacking threats and impose themselves in the game.

“Against a team like Brazil, we will have to defend together and attack together. Discipline and a fighting spirit will be crucial.”

Ouahbi also reassured supporters that the squad had recovered well after their long journey to the United States and were in good physical and mental condition ahead of the fixture.

He added that the team’s mindset would be focused on starting the tournament strongly and delivering a performance that would make Moroccan fans proud, particularly those travelling to support them in the United States.

“We will play without fear, with the desire to start this World Cup in the best possible way. We will play to make all the Moroccan fans in the United States proud.”

Morocco enter the tournament buoyed by their historic run to the semi-finals in 2022, which raised expectations around the team and increased belief in their ability to compete with the world’s top sides.

The upcoming match against Brazil at MetLife Stadium is seen as a major early test of those ambitions, with Ouahbi’s comments setting a confident tone ahead of kickoff.

As anticipation builds, Morocco’s message is clear: they intend to compete aggressively, play with structure, and challenge one of football’s most decorated nations without hesitation.