Morocco vows comeback after World Cup QF loss, eyes 2030 co‑hosting

Morocco’s Atlas Lions were eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the quarter‑finals, losing 2‑0 to France at Gillette Stadium in Boston. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised France’s quality and said the defeat will be used as motivation to improve, stressing the need to work harder for future success.

Despite the loss, Ouahbi highlighted Morocco’s historic achievement as the first African nation to reach consecutive World Cup quarter‑finals, building on the semi‑final run in Qatar 2022. He outlined the team’s short‑term focus on qualifying for and winning the next Africa Cup of Nations, before turning attention to the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co‑host with Spain and Portugal.

Players such as midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi expressed pride in representing Morocco and confidence that the experience will strengthen the squad for upcoming tournaments. The broader story notes Morocco’s recent investments in youth academies and coaching, which have helped the side become a leading African football power.

Morocco now prepares for AFCON qualifiers beginning in September and looks ahead to the 2030 World Cup, aiming to build on its recent progress on the global stage.