World Cup 2026: Tunisia legend Tarek Dhiab insists Morocco are genuine contenders

Former Tunisia international Tarek Dhiab has praised Morocco’s remarkable World Cup campaign, insisting the Atlas Lions have reached the quarterfinals through years of planning and development rather than luck.

Morocco booked their place in the last eight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 3-0 victory over Canada, continuing another historic run for African football on the global stage.

The North Africans will now face France in a high-profile quarterfinal clash as they attempt to move one step closer to another World Cup semifinal appearance.

Speaking in a video shared on his X account, Dhiab congratulated Morocco’s football authorities and leadership for what he described as a long-term project that is now producing world-class results.

“Congratulations to the Moroccan officials, the King, the government and the people, because the Moroccan national team did not reach this stage by chance, luck or randomness.”

“Hard work over many years”

Dhiab, widely regarded as one of Tunisia’s greatest footballers, said Morocco’s rise had been built through sustained investment in infrastructure and sporting development.

“Morocco’s qualification did not come by luck, but rather thanks to hard work over many years.”

The former midfielder pointed to the country’s investment in training facilities and stadiums as major factors behind the national team’s progress.

“Morocco has spent a lot of money to create a distinctive infrastructure with sound planning for sports and the inauguration of training centers and stadiums of the highest standard.”

Morocco’s latest success has once again strengthened the country’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading football powers following their historic semifinal run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Morocco aiming for global recognition

Dhiab believes the Atlas Lions are no longer competing only within African and Arab football but have now established themselves among the elite nations on the international stage.

“Morocco has moved beyond the Arab and African spheres and towards global recognition, aiming to win the World Cup and competing with giants like France and Argentina.”

The Tunisian legend also highlighted Morocco’s ability to control matches and impose their style against top opposition during the tournament.

“We saw the Moroccan national team in the current edition of the World Cup imposing its style on its opponents, and this happened in the matches against Brazil and the Netherlands.”

Morocco’s growing confidence and tactical maturity have made them one of the most closely watched teams remaining in the competition as Africa continues to dream of a first World Cup triumph.