World Cup 2026: Scotland are underdogs going into Morocco game – Steve Clarke

Scotland manager Steve Clarke believes his side will enter Friday’s World Cup meeting with Morocco as clear underdogs, describing the Atlas Lions as one of the strongest teams at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference ahead of the Group C showdown in Boston, Clarke admitted the challenge facing Scotland would be every bit as demanding as taking on Brazil and warned that Morocco’s current squad may even surpass the team that reached the semifinals in Qatar four years ago.

“Is this match as difficult as the Brazil game? Yes, absolutely,” Clarke said. “Morocco reached the semifinals in Qatar, and I think this Moroccan team is very good, if not the best.”

Clarke Believes Morocco Have Improved Since Qatar 2022

The Scotland coach went even further in his assessment by insisting the present Morocco side is stronger than the one that made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

“I believe this Morocco team is better than the 2022 team, and we are the underdogs,” he said.

Morocco opened their World Cup campaign with an impressive 1-1 draw against Brazil, a performance that further strengthened growing belief around the team’s development and competitiveness on the international stage.

Clarke’s comments reflected the respect Morocco have earned following their recent rise in world football and the growing confidence surrounding the Atlas Lions heading into the tournament.

Scotland Preparing for Morocco’s Possession Game

Clarke also outlined the tactical challenge Scotland expect to face against a Moroccan side known for controlling possession and attacking with intensity.

“I expect Morocco to have more possession than us. When we have the ball, we have to be a real threat,” he added.

The Scottish manager suggested his side must remain disciplined without the ball while showing greater efficiency whenever opportunities arise in transition.

Young Talent Ayoub Bouaddi Draws Praise

Among the Moroccan players singled out for praise was 18-year-old Ayoub Bouaddi, who impressed during the draw against Brazil in Morocco’s opening match.

Clarke acknowledged the growing impact of Morocco’s younger generation and believes the emergence of players like Bouaddi has elevated the team’s overall level.

“I think Morocco’s reliance on young players has raised the team’s level,” Clarke said. “Bouaddi caught everyone’s attention in the first game, and our task now is to make sure he does not attract the same attention in the second match.”

High Stakes in Boston

Friday’s encounter in Boston carries major importance for both nations as the Group C standings begin to take shape.

Morocco are aiming to build on their encouraging result against Brazil and move closer to qualification for the knockout stages, while Scotland are seeking a positive outcome to keep their own World Cup hopes alive.

With Clarke openly acknowledging Morocco’s strength before kickoff, the Atlas Lions head into the contest with growing belief and increasing recognition from opponents on football’s biggest stage.