Vieira backs Morocco to surprise Netherlands and reach World Cup quarter-finals
Former France midfielder Patrick Vieira told The Rest Is Football podcast that Morocco can cause a surprise and reach the quarter‑finals of the 2026 World Cup. Vieira noted that Morocco has already qualified for the Round of 32 and will face Group F winners the Netherlands in the next round. He pointed out that the Atlas Lions became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi‑final in 2022, losing only to eventual runners‑up France, and believes the current squad has enough individual quality to repeat that feat. While Vieira was skeptical about other smaller nations making deep runs, his backing highlights Morocco’s potential to advance African representation on football’s biggest stage.
For Nigerian fans, Morocco’s progress matters as a source of continental pride and a signal that African teams can compete with elite sides. A deep run could inspire greater support and investment in football across the region and affect perceptions of Africa’s competitiveness in future tournaments.
Do you think Morocco can build on its 2022 semi‑final run to reach the last four again, or do you expect another African nation to break through first?