Morocco at World Cup 2026 to win it – Chadi Riad

Morocco defender Chadi Riad has declared that the Atlas Lions are targeting nothing less than winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the team must believe in achieving the impossible if they are to make history.

Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, the Crystal Palace defender revealed that representing Morocco on football’s biggest stage is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream and stressed that the squad is entering the tournament with the highest ambitions.

“We Want to Win the World Cup”

Morocco captured the world’s attention at the 2022 World Cup by becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals.

Now, Riad believes the Atlas Lions must aim even higher.

“The objective is to win the World Cup. There is no other goal. If we don’t believe it, nobody will,” he said.

The defender’s comments underline the growing confidence within the Moroccan camp following years of progress on the international stage.

A Dream Come True for Riad

For the 22-year-old defender, featuring at the World Cup represents a personal milestone.

“Playing for my national team is what I enjoy the most, so imagine playing a World Cup,” Riad said. “It is something I have always dreamed of.”

The former Barcelona academy product described wearing the Moroccan shirt as the proudest aspect of his football career and admitted that competing at the tournament remains a special experience.

Gratitude for Morocco’s Global Support

Riad also paid tribute to Morocco’s passionate supporters, whose backing has become one of the team’s greatest strengths.

“They are always with us, no matter what happens. We are very thankful,” he added.

Moroccan fans have once again turned out in large numbers during the World Cup, creating a vibrant atmosphere and reinforcing the team’s belief that they can challenge the world’s biggest football nations.

From Barcelona to the World Stage

Riad’s rise through European football has been rapid.

The defender has represented Barcelona, Real Betis and Crystal Palace, experiences he believes have helped shape both his footballing ability and personal development.

“I have learned a lot everywhere I have been. I am a better player and a better person now,” he said.

His growth mirrors that of Morocco’s national team, which continues to establish itself among the elite sides in world football.

Atlas Lions Building on Historic Momentum

Morocco arrived at the 2026 World Cup carrying the confidence of their historic run to the semi-finals four years ago.

The Atlas Lions made another strong statement in their opening Group C match, earning an impressive 1-1 draw against Brazil.

Ismail Saibari gave Morocco the lead after a dominant opening spell before Vinicius Junior equalised for the five-time world champions.

Despite the result, many observers believed Morocco were unfortunate not to claim all three points after matching Brazil throughout the contest.

With crucial fixtures against Scotland and Haiti still to come, the Atlas Lions remain well-positioned to advance to the knockout stages.

And if Chadi Riad’s comments are anything to go by, merely qualifying from the group is not enough. Morocco have their sights set on the biggest prize in world football.