FIFA President Gianni Infantino presents the “The Best” Starting 11 trophy to Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi. Photo source: FRMF.ma
Moroccan football’s steady rise on the international stage continues to draw global admiration, including from the highest authorities in world football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has once again praised Morocco’s remarkable progress, going as far as stating that the Atlas Lions are capable of winning the World Cup.
Responding to questions from followers on his official Instagram account, Infantino was asked directly whether Morocco could lift the World Cup trophy. His answer was clear and confident: yes. According to the FIFA president, Morocco now possesses the level and structure required to compete with the world’s strongest football nations.
Recognition of Morocco’s Recent Achievements
In a video message shared on social media, Infantino highlighted Morocco’s impressive journey over the past few years. “Morocco has shown that it belongs among the great football nations,” he said. He pointed to the country’s recent successes, including winning the U20 World Cup in Chile and reaching the semifinals of the last FIFA World Cup.
These achievements, he explained, reflect a national team that has evolved significantly and is now capable of challenging the very best on the global stage.
A Historic Rise for the Atlas Lions
Infantino’s comments further reinforce Morocco’s status following its historic run to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, an unprecedented achievement for an African nation. This milestone, combined with strong results at youth level, illustrates the success of a long-term strategy focused on development, organization, and continuity.
Morocco’s investment in youth academies, infrastructure, and coaching has begun to pay dividends, creating a solid pipeline of talent capable of sustaining success at the highest level.
Eyes on the 2026 World Cup
For the FIFA president, this positive momentum positions Morocco as a credible contender ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be the largest in history with 48 participating teams. “They have every reason to be confident ahead of the biggest World Cup ever organized in 2026,” Infantino added.
This public endorsement from the head of FIFA confirms a significant shift in how Morocco is perceived globally. Once viewed as outsiders, the Atlas Lions are now firmly established among football’s elite, no longer aiming merely to surprise, but to legitimately compete for the ultimate prize.
