World Cup 2026: I am prepared and confident ahead of France tie – Morocco star Brahim Diaz

Morocco forward Brahim Diaz has expressed full confidence in the Atlas Lions’ ability to overcome France when the two sides meet in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.

The Real Madrid star addressed the media ahead of the highly anticipated encounter, insisting that Morocco have the belief and quality needed to eliminate the reigning European giants and continue their historic World Cup campaign.

Despite sharing the dressing room with French stars Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni at Real Madrid, Diaz made it clear that club relationships will be put aside once the two teams step onto the pitch.

“Aurelien and Kylian are my teammates at Real Madrid. They are exceptional players and great people, but we will be rivals on the pitch,” Diaz told reporters during the pre-match press conference.

France and Morocco will battle for a place in the semi-finals on Thursday at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, near Boston, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 GMT.

Diaz, who has been one of Morocco’s standout performers at the tournament, believes the team’s collective strength will be more important than individual achievements.

The winger has been among the leading creators at the World Cup, registering four assists — just one behind France’s Michael Olise.

“I have total faith in my team. The most important thing isn’t the individual stats, but the team. If my assists help us win, then I am happy,” he added.

The quarter-final meeting carries extra significance as it renews memories of the 2022 World Cup semi-final in Qatar, where France defeated Morocco 2-0 before going on to finish as runners-up.

However, Diaz remains confident that Morocco are ready for the challenge and believes they can make another statement on the global stage.

“I am very well prepared for the match with great confidence. I always embrace that responsibility; I know we are going to perform. I relish that pressure — it is a massive game that every player dreams of being part of,” he concluded.

Morocco will be hoping Diaz’s creativity and attacking influence can help them produce another famous World Cup victory and secure a place in the final four.