Morocco’s search for an international opponent during the next FIFA window is narrowing, with talks advancing over a potential friendly in France after several previously discussed options were ruled out.
With Saudi Arabia and Argentina no longer under consideration, attention has shifted to a new candidate as the African champions prepare their next outing.
Football officials have been reviewing proposals in recent weeks, but indications suggest that plans involving Gulf or other elite global sides have been set aside. Instead, negotiations are moving toward staging what would be a first-ever meeting on French soil.
According to information relayed by DS Sports, Peru has emerged as the leading contender to face the Lions in March.
Discussions between the match organiser and representatives of both national federations are said to be progressing positively, with efforts focused on finalising the friendly fixture in France.
The reported breakthrough follows a broad assessment by governing authorities, who examined several possible opponents for the international window.
Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, Argentina and Iran had all been mentioned at various stages. However, momentum has shifted toward the South American nation as logistical and sporting considerations continue to shape the decision-making process.
From a footballing standpoint, the proposed encounter would present a stylistic contrast. Peru are currently navigating a rebuilding phase, offering a different tactical challenge for the African champions.
Ranked 53rd in the January FIFA standings, the South American side are enduring a difficult cycle. They will not feature at the 2026 World Cup after finishing second from bottom in the CONMEBOL qualifying campaign.
Peru’s performance during that qualification run underlined their struggles. Across eighteen matches, they recorded only two victories and six draws, a return that ultimately left them short of a tournament place.
Despite those setbacks, a friendly meeting would still provide competitive value, giving both teams an opportunity to test emerging strategies and personnel ahead of future commitments.
While formal confirmation is still pending, the direction of talks suggests that preparations are centring on France as a neutral venue.
If concluded, the match would mark a notable step in the Lions’ international schedule, reflecting a deliberate effort to balance sporting challenge with practical organisation during the upcoming window.
