Morocco finished their group stage campaign at the 2026 World Cup as runners-up in Group C, level on seven points with group winners Brazil but edged out on goal difference. The result sets up a Round of 32 meeting with Netherlands, who topped Group F after a commanding win over Tunisia, with the knockout tie scheduled for Monday at Estadio Monterrey (BBVA) in Mexico. (Sky Sports)
Morocco's group-stage run
The Atlas Lions opened with a 1-0 win over Scotland, followed it with a battling 1-1 draw against Brazil, and sealed second place with a 4-2 win over Haiti in their final group match — a campaign built on defensive discipline and clinical finishing led by captain Achraf Hakimi. (Outlook India)
A heavyweight knockout draw
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman downplayed any preference between facing Morocco or Brazil in the round of 32, insisting "all the remaining teams are strong — we're not afraid of anyone," a comment that underlines the respect Walid Regragui's side commands heading into the knockouts. (Morocco World News)
Match details
- Kickoff: Monday, 9:00 PM ET
- Venue: Estadio Monterrey (BBVA), Monterrey, Mexico
- Stage: Round of 32 — Morocco's first knockout test of the tournament
Chasing the 2022 magic again
Morocco carry the memory of their historic run to the 2022 semifinals, when they became the first African and Arab nation to reach that stage. Coach Walid Regragui is expected to lean on the same low-block, counter-attacking approach that has defined his side, with pace on the flanks the key weapon against a talented Dutch midfield.
With Qatar, Jordan and Tunisia already eliminated, Morocco now stand as the Arab world's strongest remaining hope at the 2026 World Cup, while Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt and Algeria await the outcome of their own decisive matches. Follow Malaab Al-An for full coverage of the Round of 32.