Morocco's 2022 run makes them more than a spoiler in Group C, especially against Brazil teams that leave space behind advanced fullbacks.
Morocco can defend narrow, release wide runners early, and turn long spells without the ball into high-value transition attacks.
Key question: Can Morocco reproduce their knockout-level discipline while carrying more expectation than in 2022?
Knockout ceiling: Dangerous knockout side if the defensive block remains compact and the wide outlets stay healthy.
In 2022, Morocco became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semifinal. They return in 2026 with the same coach, most of the same squad, and now the burden of expectation. Can lightning strike twice?
Brazil's most dangerous group opponents are Morocco — the team that shocked Europe in 2022. Haiti and Scotland make up a fascinating Group C.
Every World Cup produces its shock stories. In 2022 it was Morocco. In 2002 it was South Korea. Here are the five teams most likely to surprise in 2026.