Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL MOROCCO REPEAT ITS SUCCESS AT THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Morocco was the dark horse that captivated the world at Qatar 2022. They reached the semifinals with a solid, organized, and heartfelt style of play. Now the big question is: can they repeat that level in 2026? This article breaks down the keys to their past success, assesses the Moroccan team's current form, and explores how feasible another historic run is. If you're a football fan and love stories that defy expectations, keep reading because things are about to get interesting.
The historic journey in Qatar 2022
The 2022 Qatar World Cup will be remembered as the tournament where Morocco made history. Not only for reaching the semifinals, but for being the first African and Arab country to reach that stage. They overcame heavyweights like Belgium, Spain, and Portugal, all with a mix of tactics, grit, and a nearly impenetrable defense.
The results that surprised the world
0-0 draw against Croatia (group stage)
2-0 victory over Belgium
1-0 victory over Canada
Round of 16: penalty shootout victory against Spain (0-0, 3-0 on penalties)
Quarterfinals: 1-0 against Portugal
Does Morocco have what it takes to repeat the feat?
Going from being the surprise to being a contender is a whole new level of pressure. Morocco arrives at 2026 with a different aura: they are no longer the "outsider," now everyone will take them seriously. And maintaining that level won't be easy, but it's not impossible either.
The core of the team remains active, with young players at top European clubs. Hakimi (PSG), Amrabat (Manchester United), Ziyech (Galatasaray), En-Nesyri (Sevilla), Boufal (Al-Rayyan), and goalkeeper Bono (Al-Hilal) are just some of the key names who could be in great form by 2026.
Strengths that remain
Solid and very physical defense.
Experience in high-voltage matches.
Team unity: a very close-knit and committed dressing room.
Talent on the wings with speed and ability to unbalance defenses.
Furthermore, Walid Regragui will remain in charge. His continuity is key to maintaining the project and evolving the style. It's no longer enough to defend well: if they want to repeat the feat, they will have to be more proactive, because now everyone will be studying them.
What needs improvement
Although they were a defensive wall, Morocco had offensive shortcomings. They struggled to create play when the opponent sat back. And while the counter-attack was their most lethal weapon, they will need more options to overcome teams that cede possession.
More goals: without a decisive number 9, they will depend on En-Nesyri or some new talent.
Greater control of the game: avoid constant pressure by defending without the ball.
Penetrating set pieces: key in closed tournaments.
In short, Morocco has reason to dream. But repeating their semifinal appearance won't be easy. World football doesn't give anything away, and 2026 will be an even tougher test than Qatar.
Statistics, curiosities and expectations for 2026
Morocco's feat in Qatar was not a stroke of luck. It was the culmination of years of youth development, investment in infrastructure and tactical growth. And the numbers prove it.
Stats that define an era
First African team to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup.
They conceded only one goal in five matches (up to the semi-finals).
Achraf Hakimi ran more than 11 km per match, making him one of the most physically active players.
Bono was chosen as the best goalkeeper in several matches, with an 85% save percentage.
Sofyan Amrabat averaged 8 recoveries per match.
Realistic expectations for 2026
Can Morocco repeat their semifinal appearance? Yes, but it will all depend on the draw, the physical condition of their key players, and whether any new stars emerge. Remember that in 2026 the World Cup will have 48 teams, with more groups and a different initial phase.
The important thing is that Morocco has already entered the conversation of the teams no one wants to face. They're no longer a surprise: they're contenders. And if they manage to maintain their structure, improve their offense, and play without fear, it wouldn't be surprising to see them in the quarterfinals again or beyond.
With history, passion, and an increasingly competitive team, the Atlas Lions have solid arguments to make waves again. In 2026, they won't just be a fond memory… they could be protagonists once more.
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