Mohamed Ouahbi plans defensive core for Morocco’s 2026 World Cup campaign

Morocco’s new head coach Mohamed Ouahbi is focusing on building a strong defensive unit as he prepares the Atlas Lions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the national team following the departure of Walid Regragui.

Ouahbi has taken charge of Morocco after Regragui opted not to continue in the role following the team’s failure to secure the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.

The change in leadership has placed Ouahbi at the centre of Morocco’s preparations for the next global tournament, where the North African side will look to build on their historic achievements from the last edition.

The Atlas Lions captured worldwide attention at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they reached the semi-finals and finished fourth.

That campaign represented the best performance ever by an African or Arab nation at the tournament and raised expectations for Morocco’s future on the global stage.

With the next World Cup approaching, Ouahbi is now shaping the squad that will attempt to repeat – or even surpass – that success.

Reports indicate that the Moroccan coach is planning to rely heavily on a solid defensive structure as the backbone of his team.

According to information published by the sports website 365Scores, Ouahbi is working to assemble what has been described as a formidable defensive line for Morocco ahead of the tournament.

Central to that plan is experienced defender Nayef Aguerd, who is expected to play a leading role in organising Morocco’s back line.

Aguerd has established himself as one of the team’s most reliable defenders and is likely to bring both leadership and international experience to the squad.

Alongside him, Ouahbi is expected to turn to Ismail Baouf, a defender who gained attention after helping Morocco win the Youth World Cup.

Baouf’s success at youth level and his development in professional football have made him one of the promising options available to strengthen Morocco’s defence.

Another player who is attracting attention is Shadi Riad. The defender has impressed with his performances at English club Crystal Palace, and his consistent displays have placed him firmly in contention for a key role in Morocco’s defensive setup.

The group could also include Issa Diop, who has emerged as another option for Ouahbi as he looks to add depth and experience to the squad.

Diop’s presence would provide additional competition for places in the back line as Morocco prepares for the demanding challenge of the World Cup.

The emphasis on defensive organisation suggests that Ouahbi is determined to ensure Morocco remains difficult to break down – a characteristic that was central to their success in Qatar.

Morocco has been drawn in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Brazil, Scotland and Haiti. The group presents a challenging set of opponents, with Brazil widely regarded as one of the favourites to win the tournament.

For Ouahbi, the coming months will be crucial as he works to refine his tactical approach and build a squad capable of competing against the world’s strongest teams.

By strengthening Morocco’s defensive core while maintaining the team’s competitive spirit, the new coach hopes to ensure the Atlas Lions remain one of the most formidable representatives of African football on the global stage.