"Pitted against Brazil, Haiti and Scotland in the group stage, Morocco is heavily favored to advance to the knockout round. Whether they're able to finish ahead of the historical powerhouse from South America is the more pressing question. Walid Regragui's side has skyrocketed through FIFA's men's rankings since 2016 and sits 11th in the world, only six spots behind Brazil, while Scotland are designated 36th and Haiti rank 84th."
"The first African nation to reach the semifinals four years ago in Qatar, Morocco are teeming with experienced, talented players such as captain Achraf Hakimi ( Paris Saint-Germain), defender Noussair Mazraoui ( Manchester United), midfielder Eliesse Ben Seghir ( Bayer Leverkusen) and striker Youssef En-Nesyri (Fenerbahçe)."
"The addition of Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz -- who switched from representing Spain to Morocco in 2024 -- only strengthens a dangerous side that has won a record 16 straight matches in international competition, including World Cup qualifiers and friendlies."
FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage draw placed Morocco in Group C with Brazil, Scotland and Haiti. DraftKings lists Morocco at +450 to win Group C. Morocco sit 11th in FIFA rankings, six spots behind Brazil, while Scotland are 36th and Haiti 84th. Morocco reached the 2022 World Cup semifinals and maintain strong form, holding a 16-match winning streak across qualifiers and friendlies. Key players include Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Youssef En-Nesyri and Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz, who switched allegiance to Morocco in 2024. The side's experience and consistency make them heavy favorites to advance.
Read at ESPN.com
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