Morocco continues to earn respect internationally. When asked by La Gazzetta dello Sport about the favorites for the World Cup, Laurent Blanc, 1998 World Champion with France and former coach of Les Bleus, mentioned the Atlas Lions among the teams capable of creating a surprise in this edition.
The former French defender believes it is difficult to designate a single clear favorite in a World Cup featuring 48 teams. According to him, several nations have the necessary arguments to go far, starting with Germany, Spain, Argentina, and Brazil. “Germany is strong, Spain with Yamal is a different team, Messi’s Argentina is the defending champion and deserves respect, and then there is Ancelotti’s Brazil. Among the ‘surprises’, I would include Switzerland and Morocco,” Laurent Blanc stated to the Italian media.
This statement once again confirms the perception of the Moroccan team since its historic run in Qatar, as well as its solid start in this World Cup. The Atlas Lions finished second in their group, behind Brazil, with a journey marked by a draw against the Seleção, a victory against Scotland, and a win against Haiti.
For Morocco, this recognition from a former world champion illustrates the change in status of the national team. Now, Mohamed Ouahbi’s men are no longer seen merely as an African outsider, but as a team capable of competing with major nations on the international stage.
The Atlas Lions will have the opportunity to confirm this reputation in their upcoming match against the Netherlands in the Round of 16 of the World Cup. A knockout clash that will determine whether Morocco can once again shake up the global hierarchy.
