Morocco’s national football team, the Lions of the Atlas, is gearing up for two friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. These matches are scheduled for March 27 and March 31, respectively, as part of their preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Morocco Announces Squad for Ecuador and Paraguay Matches
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi has called up a diverse group of 28 players for this international duty. This decision was revealed during a press conference held at the Mohammed VI Football Complex last Thursday.
New Faces in the Squad
The squad features several debutants, including:
- Redouane Halhal from KV Mechelen
- Issa Diop, a defender from Fulham
- Samir El Mourabet, midfielder from Strasbourg
- Mohamed Rabie Hrimat, captain of AS FAR
Additionally, young talents who won the U20 World Cup, such as Ismaël Baouf, Yassir Zabiri, and Yassine Gessime, have also been included.
Match Details
The friendly matches will take place in Spain and France:
- Against Ecuador in Madrid on March 27
- Against Paraguay in Lens on March 31
2026 World Cup Preparations
These fixtures are crucial for Morocco as they prepare for the World Cup. The team has been drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. This opportunity will allow the coach to assess his player options and solidify team chemistry.
Full Squad List
Here is the complete list of players selected for the upcoming matches:
Goalkeepers:
- El Mehdi Benabid
- Yassine Bounou
- El Mehdi Al Harrar
Defenders:
- Achraf Hakimi
- Zakaria El Ouahdi
- Issa Diop
- Ismaël Baouf
- Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal
- Redouane Halhal
- Chadi Riad
- Souffian El Karouani
- Anass Salah-Eddine
- Noussair Mazraoui
Midfielders:
- Azzedine Ounahi
- Ismaël Saibari
- Bilal El Khannouss
- Samir El Mourabet
- Neil El Aynaoui
- Oussama Targhalline
- Mohamed Rabie Hrimat
Forwards:
- Brahim Díaz
- Yassine Gessime
- Ayoub El Kaabi
- Yassir Zabiri
- Soufiane Rahimi
- Abdessamad Ezzalzouli
- Chemsdine Talbi
- Amine Adli
With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, Morocco seeks to make a strong impression in these matches and build momentum ahead of the World Cup.
