Morocco's Atlas Lions prepare for World Cup 2026 knockout match against Canada
via Le Matin3 min read
The Atlas Lions are set to face Canada in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup after defeating the Netherlands in Monterrey, Mexico. Canada, one of the three host nations, has impressed in the tournament, demonstrating strong organization and effectiveness, including a victory against South Africa. Canadian coach Jesse Marsch described preparing for the match against Morocco as a "bloody, horrible nightmare," acknowledging their strength while hinting at a strategic approach to trap the Atlas Lions. Morocco's national team, under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, has focused on physical and mental recovery, defensive positioning, and wing play to counter Canada's system. The team maintains a confident but not euphoric atmosphere, with Ouahbi emphasizing the need to move past their previous success. Video analysis has been used to identify the opponent's weaknesses. The historical record favors Morocco, with a memorable 2-1 victory over Canada in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a win that propelled them to the semifinals. While the context has changed and Canada is playing on home soil, the psychological advantage from past encounters remains. Morocco recognizes the need to build on their past achievements while writing a new chapter against a reinforced Canadian team.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Matin.
Spain's Secretary of State for Migration, Pilar Cancela, announced that 1,174,978 regularization applications were submitted between mid-April and June 30, with over 600,000 already deemed admissible. Latin American applicants constitute two-thirds 67% of the total, while nearly a quarter 22.9% are from Africa. The applicants are predominantly male 57% and relatively young, with 8 out of 10 being under 45 years old. Colombia is the leading country of origin at 25.9%, followed by Morocco at 13.3%, Venezuela at 11.8%, and Peru at 8.8%. Authorities have three months to process these applications and issue, or deny, a residence and work permit valid only in Spain. Prime Minister Pedro S谩nchez noted over a million applications were filed, exceeding the initial estimate of benefiting nearly half a million people. Applicants had to prove at least five months of presence in Spain by January 1 and a clean criminal record. The Spanish government's stance on "legal, safe, and orderly" migration is an exception within the European Union and has been praised by the head of Spain's main employers' organization, CEOE, amidst recruitment challenges in certain sectors.
Achraf Hakimi was honored for reaching 100 selections with the Atlas Lions, celebrating his exemplary career, consistent commitment, and loyalty to the national jersey. Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the FRMF, congratulated Hakimi on this symbolic milestone in his international career, wishing him continued success with the national team. Hakimi, the captain of the Atlas Lions, expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI for the constant support given to the national team and national football. He also thanked the FRMF president, the technical staff, his teammates, and all those who supported him throughout his national team journey. This celebration acknowledges Hakimi's role as a key player, a model of professionalism, selflessness, and dedication to Morocco.
Robbie Williams performed his first show in Morocco at the Jazzablanca festival's Casa Anfa stage. The British star's concert featured many of his hits, including "Let Me Entertain You," "Rock DJ," "Feel," "Love My Life," and "Angels." He also paid tribute to classics like "New York, New York" and "My Way," and performed a cover of Joan Jett & The Blackhearts' "I Love Rock 'N' Roll." Earlier, French band Deluxe opened the festivities with a blend of funk, soul, hip-hop, jazz, electro, and pop. On Scene 21, Bab L'Bluz presented a mix of Gnawa rhythms, psychedelic rock, and blues, followed by British-Bahraini trumpeter Yazz Ahmed, who offered modern jazz with Middle Eastern influences. At the Arab League Park, Asmaa Hamzaoui & Bnat Timbouktou performed a concert rooted in Gnawa tradition. Hamzaoui, the first woman to become a maalma in a male-dominated field, showcased this heritage with her guembri, qraqeb, and spiritual songs, blending tradition with contemporary sensitivity.