Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni names Morocco among contenders for 2026 World Cup

Morocco’s growing reputation on the international stage has received another major endorsement after Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni included the Atlas Lions among the teams capable of winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Argentine manager identified Morocco as one of the leading nations he believes can challenge for football’s biggest prize when the tournament gets underway in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Scaloni Backs Morocco’s Chances

Speaking in an interview with Argentine newspaper Olé, Scaloni was asked to identify the teams he considers serious contenders for the World Cup title.

Among the nations mentioned by the World Cup-winning coach was Morocco, a selection that has attracted attention given the country’s growing status in world football following its historic achievements in recent years.

Scaloni’s assessment serves as a significant vote of confidence for head coach Mohamed Ouahbi and his squad ahead of the tournament.

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The Argentina boss listed several traditional football powers alongside Morocco when discussing potential champions.

“Ten? I don’t know if I’ve underestimated it. In the World Cup, it’s normal for Argentina to be there. I don’t know if they will win, but these ten or twelve will fight and try to reach the final.”

Scaloni then named the teams he believes are capable of competing for the trophy.

“Spain, France, Portugal, England, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Croatia, but in the end, it is not enough to play well, to be competitive, to be a great team; rather, many factors must come together to facilitate the path.”

The inclusion of Morocco alongside nations with long World Cup traditions highlights the respect the Atlas Lions have earned across global football.

Recognition of Morocco’s Rise

Morocco enters the 2026 World Cup carrying high expectations after its remarkable campaign at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

The Atlas Lions became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of a FIFA World Cup, capturing the imagination of football fans around the world and establishing themselves as a genuine force on the international stage.

That historic achievement has transformed perceptions of Moroccan football and positioned the national team among the most respected sides heading into the competition.

Argentina Maintaining Winning Mentality

Scaloni also reflected on Argentina’s own ambitions as the defending world champions prepare to defend their crown.

The coach stressed that expectations surrounding Argentina remain unchanged whenever the team qualifies for a World Cup.

“This will not change, it will not change. The ball may go in, it may not go in. The important thing is that we know what we are aiming for, and that we respect our traditions and culture, and then the stadium will say what it has to say.”

His comments underline the belief that while talent and preparation are crucial, success at a World Cup often depends on a combination of factors coming together at the right moment.

Atlas Lions Aim for Another Historic Run

With Mohamed Ouahbi leading a talented squad that blends experienced internationals and emerging stars, Morocco will arrive at the World Cup determined to prove that its success in Qatar was no one-off achievement.

The endorsement from one of football’s most respected coaches will only add to the confidence surrounding the Atlas Lions as they prepare for another opportunity to make history on the sport’s biggest stage.

For Morocco, being named among the tournament favorites by Scaloni is further evidence that the national team is now viewed as a genuine contender by some of the most influential figures in world football.