Morocco is stepping up preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 with three important warm-up matches scheduled ahead of the tournament. The Atlas Lions will use these friendly fixtures to build chemistry, improve match fitness, and finalize tactics before beginning their Group C campaign in the United States.
Morocco became one of the biggest stories of the last World Cup after reaching the semifinals in Qatar 2022, making history as the first African nation to achieve that milestone. Expectations are now even higher heading into the 2026 tournament, especially with new head coach Mohamed Ouahbi taking charge earlier this year.
Ouahbi replaced Walid Regragui in March and has already started shaping his squad. Since his appointment, Morocco has played two matches, recording a draw against Ecuador and a victory over Paraguay. The upcoming friendlies will give the coaching staff another opportunity to evaluate players and strengthen team organization before facing elite World Cup opponents.
Morocco FIFA World Cup 2026 Warm-up Fixtures
Morocco’s preparation schedule includes three friendly matches against Burundi, Madagascar, and Norway. These games are expected to help the team sharpen its attacking movement and defensive structure before the World Cup begins.
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| May 26, 2026 | Morocco vs Burundi | Morocco Training Centre, Sale |
| June 2, 2026 | Morocco vs Madagascar | Morocco Training Centre, Sale |
| June 7, 2026 | Morocco vs Norway | Basking Ridge, New Jersey, USA |
The first two matches will be played in Sale, allowing Morocco to prepare in familiar conditions before traveling to the United States. The final warm-up game against Norway in New Jersey could be the most challenging test, as it will simulate the atmosphere and environment of the World Cup.
Morocco Group C Fixtures at FIFA World Cup 2026
Morocco has been placed in a difficult Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Every match will be crucial as the Atlas Lions aim to reach the knockout stage once again.
Below are Morocco’s group-stage fixtures with kick-off times converted to Morocco time (GMT+1).
| Date | Morocco Time | Venue | Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 14, 2026 | 23:00 | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, USA | Brazil vs Morocco |
| June 19, 2026 | 23:00 | Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, USA | Scotland vs Morocco |
| June 24, 2026 | 23:00 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA | Morocco vs Haiti |
The opening match against Brazil will immediately test Morocco’s ambitions. Facing one of football’s traditional powerhouses could define the momentum of the group stage. The second game against Scotland is also expected to be highly competitive, while the final fixture against Haiti may prove decisive in qualification scenarios.
Expectations for Morocco at World Cup 2026
Morocco enters the tournament with growing confidence after its remarkable 2022 World Cup campaign. The squad still features several experienced international stars along with emerging young talent eager to make an impact on the global stage.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi will hope the warm-up fixtures help establish consistency and tactical balance before the tournament begins. With passionate fan support and a strong footballing identity, Morocco once again has the potential to surprise the world at FIFA World Cup 2026.