8 July 2026
The Moroccan national team continued their preparations for the decisive match against France on Thursday, in the quarter-finals of the World Cup being held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The "Atlas Lions" entered the final stages of their preparations with a training session led by coach Mohamed Wahbi amidst rainy conditions. The session brought welcome news for Moroccan football fans, as central defender Chadi Riad joined the group training after 20 minutes, signaling his readiness and bolstering the defense.
Riad's return strengthens the coach's options after his forced absence due to injury from the previous match against Canada in the Round of 16. This provides a significant morale and tactical boost to the team, given the high level of performance the player has displayed in recent matches.
In this historic match, the Moroccan national team carries the hopes of both Arab and African football as the sole remaining representative in the World Cup, following Egypt's elimination in the Round of 16 after their thrilling 2-3 defeat to Argentina on Tuesday.
It is worth noting that the winner of this clash between Morocco and France will secure a place in the World Cup semi-finals to face the winner of the Spain-Belgium match.
