World Cup 2026: Chinese media praise Morocco as emerging long-term football power

Morocco’s progress to the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has drawn widespread admiration from Chinese media, which now describe the Atlas Lions not as surprise contenders, but as a team firmly established among international football’s elite.

Once viewed primarily as potential upset specialists, Morocco are now being assessed through a different lens following another strong tournament showing and a commanding victory over Canada.

Chinese outlets have highlighted the team’s tactical maturity, squad depth and consistent development, suggesting their rise is the result of a long-term sporting project rather than short-term momentum.

Morocco’s victory over Canada earns praise

The Atlas Lions’ latest 3-0 win over Canada has been widely discussed in Chinese sports coverage, with analysts pointing to a controlled and disciplined performance.

According to CCTV Sports, Morocco delivered a composed display, managing the tempo effectively and showing the ability to accelerate their play after an evenly balanced first half.

Reports also highlighted key attacking contributions, including a brace from Azzedine Ounahi and a goal from Sofiane Rahimi, which helped secure qualification for the last eight.

The overall assessment focused less on individual brilliance alone and more on collective structure and game management.

Shift in perception: from outsiders to contenders

Chinese commentary has repeatedly emphasised that Morocco are no longer reliant on moments of surprise or isolated performances.

Instead, they are now described as a structured and disciplined unit capable of controlling high-pressure knockout matches.

Leadership from Achraf Hakimi, combined with the attacking influence of Ounahi and Rahimi, has been frequently mentioned as central to the team’s progress.

Analysts have also credited head coach Mohamed Ouahbi for building a side capable of balancing defensive organisation with attacking efficiency.

This shift in perception marks a notable change in how Morocco are viewed on the global stage.

Comparisons with Qatar 2022, but with a key difference

Several Chinese media analyses have drawn comparisons between Morocco’s current campaign and their historic run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

However, they argue there is a significant difference this time: Morocco’s presence in the quarter-finals is now seen as an expectation rather than a surprise.

Rather than being framed as an unexpected breakthrough, their success is being interpreted as evidence of consistent growth and long-term planning.

This includes investment in youth development, the influence of players developed abroad, and steady progress across national team structures.

Historic statistical milestone

One statistic has also stood out in Chinese coverage: Morocco are reportedly the first African nation to reach at least the quarter-finals in two consecutive World Cups.

That achievement has further strengthened their reputation as one of the continent’s leading football nations.

The Atlas Lions now turn their attention to a demanding quarter-final against France, a test that will further define their growing status on the world stage.