World Cup 2026: Morocco land in Boston as Atlas Lions step up preparations for France quarterfinal showdown

Morocco’s national team have arrived in Boston as preparations intensify for their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal clash against France.

The Atlas Lions flew out of Houston on Sunday, just hours after securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Canada that confirmed their place in the last eight of the tournament.

Coach Mohamed Wahbi’s side now shift their focus to one of the biggest matches of their campaign as they continue their historic run on the global stage.

Recovery session before travel to Boston

Following their win over Canada, the squad completed a light recovery session in Houston before departing for Boston Airport later in the day.

The players then boarded their flight to Massachusetts, where they will set up camp ahead of Thursday’s quarterfinal at Gillette Stadium.

The team is expected to resume training immediately upon arrival as they fine-tune preparations for a decisive meeting with France.

Familiar ground offers positive memories

Boston and Gillette Stadium already hold positive memories for Morocco in this tournament.

During the group stage, the Atlas Lions secured a valuable 1-0 victory over Scotland at the same venue, with Ismail Saibari scoring an early goal to seal the result.

That win is seen within the camp as a reminder of their strong form on US soil as they prepare to return to the same setting for an even higher-stakes encounter.

France await after narrow win over Paraguay

France booked their place in the quarterfinals after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in Philadelphia, with Kylian Mbappé scoring the decisive penalty.

The match in Boston is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, with both sides aiming to move a step closer to World Cup glory.

Morocco, meanwhile, continue to carry African hopes as they prepare for another major test in their impressive campaign.