World Cup 2026: Morocco step up preparations ahead of France quarter-final showdown

Morocco have intensified their preparations for a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash against France, with the Atlas Lions returning to training as they target a place in the semi-finals.

The Moroccan team will hold an open training session on Tuesday evening as preparations continue for Thursday’s highly anticipated encounter. The session will be partially accessible to the media, allowing journalists to assess the squad’s readiness ahead of the decisive fixture.

Following the training session, members of the coaching staff and players will face the press at 5:00 PM local time in Boston, which corresponds to 10:00 PM in Morocco.

Atlas Lions carry confidence after Canada victory

Morocco booked their place in the last eight after producing a convincing 3-0 victory over Canada in Houston.

Azzedine Ounahi was the star of the match, scoring twice in the second half before Soufiane Rahimi added a late third goal to seal another memorable World Cup victory for the North African side.

The result continued Morocco’s impressive campaign and set up a mouth-watering quarter-final meeting with France.

Morocco seek revenge in World Cup semi-final rematch

The clash with France brings back memories of the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals, when the European champions ended Morocco’s historic run with a 2-0 victory.

The Atlas Lions will now be hoping to produce a different outcome when the two nations meet again, with a place in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals at stake.

The match is scheduled for Thursday at 9:00 PM Moroccan time at Boston Stadium.

Saibari fitness remains a key concern

While Morocco’s coaching staff remain confident ahead of the encounter, the physical condition of midfielder Ismael Saibari has become one of the main focuses of attention.

The medical team is working to ensure the influential midfielder recovers from a minor hamstring strain and is available for the crucial quarter-final battle.

With a historic semi-final place within reach, Morocco will be counting on both tactical preparation and full squad fitness as they prepare to face one of the world’s strongest football nations.