Spain coach Luis de la Fuente backs Morocco as serious 2026 World Cup contenders

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes Morocco have established themselves among the strongest teams in world football and considers the Atlas Lions genuine contenders to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on the El Camino De Mario podcast, the Spanish manager described the upcoming tournament as a historic edition that could produce one of the most competitive World Cups ever staged.

De la Fuente Expects Historic Tournament

The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition to feature 48 national teams, with matches set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to De la Fuente, the expanded format and unique conditions surrounding the tournament will create an exceptional atmosphere.

“It is a very exceptional World Cup, historic because it will feature the participation of 48 teams, and in very special conditions. It will be a massive tournament,” the Spain coach said.

Morocco Included Among World Cup Favorites

De la Fuente also named Morocco among the nations capable of lifting the trophy, placing the Atlas Lions alongside some of football’s traditional giants.

“France, Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, Spain, England, Senegal, Morocco… they all have the same chance to win the World Cup,” he stated.

The Spanish tactician praised Morocco’s progress in recent years, highlighting the squad’s tactical discipline and the quality of its players as major reasons behind their growing international reputation.

Atlas Lions Continue to Earn Global Respect

Morocco’s rise on the global stage accelerated after their historic campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The Atlas Lions became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament, eliminating major football powers including Spain and Portugal along the way.

Their performances changed global perceptions of African football and firmly established Morocco as one of the emerging forces in the international game.

Tough Challenge Awaits in Group C

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, with Morocco placed in a highly competitive Group C.

The Atlas Lions will open their campaign against Brazil on June 13 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey in what is expected to be one of the standout matches of the group stage.