Morocco: The Exceptional Force Spain's Coach Anticipates for World Cup 2026
8 March 2026
De la Fuente Praises Morocco as Exceptional
Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente described the Moroccan national team as 'exceptional' in an interview with RNE Deportes, while also praising Senegal, the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 champions. He indicated that Morocco possesses qualities that could help them stand out as a European and world-stage contender ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Morocco's Momentum and Past Praise
Asked which African sides could leave a mark at the World Cup, de la Fuente admitted he was impressed by Senegal but Morocco seems 'exceptional.' He has previously lauded the team in AS, calling them strong contenders for the 2026 title. Morocco reached the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final earlier this year, narrowly missing the crown after a dramatic loss to Senegal. The team also carries momentum from their World Cup 2022 semifinal run, the first for an Arab-African nation.
World Cup 2026 Preparations and Group Hopes
Morocco, coached by the new manager Mohamed Wahbi, is preparing for the World Cup with two March 2026 friendlies against Ecuador and Paraguay. They are drawn in Group C with Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti, continuing a historic African presence on the global stage.
Punchline 1: If courage were a pass, Morocco would assist the whole stadium. Punchline 2: And if humor were a goal, my jokes would finally win the World Cup—but I’d still prefer a defender to clear them off the line.
