World Cup 2026: Morocco pose a real threat – Former Atlas Lions captain Noureddine Naybet

Moroccan football legend and former captain Noureddine Naybet has expressed strong confidence in the Atlas Lions’ chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the North African side has the quality to compete with the world’s best and even dream of lifting the trophy.

Speaking in an interview with FIFA’s official website ahead of the tournament, the former defender reflected on the unique significance of the World Cup and the excitement surrounding Morocco’s participation in the global showpiece, which kicks off next Thursday across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

“Participating in the World Cup is the pinnacle of any footballer’s career,” Naybet said. “It’s bigger than the Champions League; it’s the ultimate achievement for any player and any national team. It’s something completely different.”

The former Morocco captain, who represented his country at the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, recalled the unforgettable memories he created during his first appearance on football’s biggest stage in the United States.

“Every child dreams of playing in the World Cup,” he said. “I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the 1994 World Cup in the USA. It’s difficult to describe. It was my first time participating, and I have wonderful memories of it that I will never forget.”

Naybet believes the current Moroccan squad possesses all the ingredients needed to challenge the strongest nations in the competition.

The retired defender praised the depth and quality available to head coach Walid Regragui, highlighting the presence of world-class players across every area of the team.

“We have a high-quality team with world-class players, a fantastic squad with talent and depth in every position,” Naybet stated.

While acknowledging that Morocco may not be considered among the tournament favourites on paper, the former international insisted that the Atlas Lions have every reason to be ambitious.

“We have to take each match as it comes,” he explained. “Although we are not among the favourites on paper, we are confident in our ability to pose a real threat, and we can dream of going far with the quality we possess.”

Naybet then delivered a bold message that is sure to inspire Moroccan supporters around the world.

“Who says we can’t win the World Cup?” he asked.

The 55-year-old remains one of the most iconic figures in Moroccan football history. Despite retiring two decades ago, his record of 115 appearances for the national team remains unmatched. Current captain Achraf Hakimi is the closest active player to surpassing the historic milestone.

Morocco head into the 2026 World Cup carrying the confidence gained from their historic run at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where they became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals. The Atlas Lions eventually finished fourth after losing to Croatia in the third-place playoff.

This year’s campaign begins with a daunting Group C opener against five-time world champions Brazil. The group also features Scotland and South Africa, making it one of the most competitive sections of the tournament.

With expectations higher than ever and a talented generation entering its prime, Morocco will be aiming to build on its historic achievements and prove once again that it belongs among the elite nations of world football.