Four years after becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, Morocco enter the 2026 qualification cycle with heightened expectations and a new manager at the helm. The Atlas Lions have replaced Walid Regragui with Mohamed Ouahbi following their disappointing Africa Cup of Nations campaign, leaving minimal time for the new coach to impose his philosophy before the North American finals.
Ouahbi, who guided Morocco to the Under-20 World Cup title last year, faces a compressed timeline to implement his methods. His first senior window brought encouraging results, however, with a 1-1 draw against Ecuador and a 2-1 victory over Paraguay in late March suggesting improvement on the stuttering performances that marked the end of Regragui’s reign.
Tactical Evolution
The new head coach has introduced a clear 4-2-3-1 formation that morphs into a 4-2-2-2 during attacking phases. This system is designed to create a corridor of space in front of captain Achraf Hakimi on the right flank, allowing the defender to drive forward effectively. The tactical shift represents a departure from the more conservative approach seen during the 2022 Qatar campaign.
AFCON Trauma and Appeals
Morocco’s recent silverware has arrived under controversial circumstances. During January’s AFCON final against Senegal, opposition players walked off the pitch in protest at a penalty award to Morocco. Brahim Diaz missed the subsequent Panenka attempt, and Senegal secured a 1-0 victory. However, CAF later awarded the title to Morocco, prompting Senegal to lodge an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Ouahbi has acknowledged the psychological scars from that final, stating: “We all lived a trauma as Moroccans. That final was a difficult moment, but I think what matters the most is continuity.” The coach must now ensure that episode does not destabilise a squad that has climbed into the world’s top ten rankings.
Weight of Expectation
Unlike 2022, when their semi-final run shocked global football, Morocco now carry the burden of established reputation. Ouahbi addressed this pressure at his unveiling, saying: “I am aware of the expectations, but very honoured. I am committed to working with seriousness, humility and determination and also a lot of patriotism to continue on the path of progression of this team.”
The 2026 tournament should feel like a homecoming of sorts. A substantial Moroccan diaspora resides in New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts, with further communities across Canada. These supporters are expected to generate formidable vocal backing throughout the competition, replicating the passionate atmosphere that drove the team to historic heights in Qatar.