Back in the Spotlight: Morocco Gets a World Cup Boost as a Star Returns
5 April 2026
World Cup Draw and Morocco's Hopes
The Atlas Lions are gearing up to compete in a tough group.
The Moroccan national team staff, led by Mohamed Wahbi, received good news a few months before participating in the World Cup finals, to be held next summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The World Cup draw placed the Atlas Lions in Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland.
Wahbi hopes to name the best players for the World Cup squad, but will wait until the final moments to decide, given concerns about injuries.
Marwan Sandi's Return and Team Readiness
And today, Sunday, Wahbi received good news from Spain, as Moroccan striker Marwan Sandi returned to action with Athletic Bilbao after featuring in his team's 2-0 defeat to Getafe, a match that marked his official return to the pitch after a long injury layoff.
The 25-year-old underwent knee surgery in November to treat a meniscal tear.
This injury forced him to miss the last Africa Cup of Nations finals, prompting former coach Walid Regragui to rely on other options in the striker position.
The Moroccan player is now ready to regain match rhythm, and coach Ernesto Valverde is expected to gradually rely on him in upcoming fixtures.
(Read also).. A heated clash between Morocco and Spain before the World Cup 2030
Punchline 1: If comebacks paid rent, Marwan Sandi would own the stadium by now.
Punchline 2: Morocco’s mood is so high right now that even the injuries are filing for a transfer to happier days.
