World Cup 2026: Chadi Riad says Morocco are aiming to win the tournament

Morocco defender Chadi Riad has declared that the Atlas Lions have arrived at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a clear objective — winning the competition.

The 22-year-old, speaking in an interview published by Spanish sports newspaper AS, said the Moroccan squad is approaching the tournament with confidence and belief as it seeks to achieve an unprecedented milestone in the nation’s football history.

Morocco have continued to establish themselves among the leading teams in international football in recent years, and Riad believes the quality within the squad justifies ambitious expectations.

“Today, within the group, the objective is to win the World Cup. There is no other goal,” said the Crystal Palace defender.

“if we don’t believe it ourselves, no one will do it for us.”

His comments reflect the growing confidence within the Moroccan camp as the Atlas Lions compete on football’s biggest stage.

For Riad, the current tournament also carries special personal significance. The defender described participating in the World Cup for the first time as a major milestone in his career and one of the proudest moments of his football journey.

“Representing the national team is what I love most about football. Playing in a World Cup is something exceptional,” he said.

The former FC Barcelona academy player has steadily built his reputation in European football. After progressing through Barcelona’s youth system and later playing for Real Betis, he has continued his development with Crystal Palace, where he celebrated success by winning the Conference League this season.

Despite growing external discussion about tournament favourites and potential contenders, Riad insisted Morocco’s focus remains firmly on its own performances rather than comparisons with other nations.

Instead of looking too far ahead, the defender suggested the team is concentrating on preparing for each challenge as it comes while maintaining belief in its overall ambition.

Morocco’s players are also drawing motivation from the unwavering backing of their supporters, who have followed the team in large numbers throughout recent international competitions.

Riad paid tribute to the passion of Moroccan fans and highlighted the role they continue to play in inspiring the squad.

“It’s incredible to see them always there to support us, whatever the circumstances,” he said.

The defender’s remarks underline the confidence running through the Moroccan camp as the Atlas Lions pursue their World Cup dream.

While the road to lifting football’s most prestigious trophy remains challenging, Riad made it clear that Morocco are not entering the tournament simply to participate.

The squad believes it has the quality, ambition and support necessary to compete with the world’s best teams and chase the ultimate prize.