Morocco will seek a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they take on France in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash at Foxborough Stadium, near Boston, on Thursday.

The encounter is a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, where France defeated Morocco 2-0 to end the Atlas Lions’ historic campaign. This time, Morocco head into the contest as genuine title contenders after an impressive run that saw them finish unbeaten in the group stage before eliminating the Netherlands on penalties and thrashing co-hosts Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16.

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his team is no longer regarded as the surprise package of world football, expressing confidence that the country’s recent success can be sustained. He described the team’s progress as a source of national pride and insisted the current achievements are only the beginning.

France, meanwhile, remain one of the tournament favourites after edging Paraguay 1-0 in the previous round through a Kylian Mbappe penalty. Led by Mbappe and reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Les Bleus boast one of the strongest attacking line-ups in the competition. However, Morocco will rely on their disciplined defence, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and captain Achraf Hakimi as they bid to produce another famous World Cup upset.