🇲🇦MoroccoNorth Africa
Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes discuss the Moroccan challenge for the 2026 World Cup
via Le Matin1 min read
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Brazil is meticulously preparing for its match against Morocco. Brazilian winger Raphinha confirmed that the Seleção's technical staff is analyzing Morocco's playing style, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses to optimize their preparation. He noted that the team still has several days to refine their strategy against the Moroccan squad, which has become a significant force in global football. Meanwhile, Portugal's Bruno Fernandes expressed a desire for a rematch against Morocco in the 2026 World Cup final. He cited the 2022 World Cup quarter-final, where Morocco defeated Portugal 1-0, as a lingering memory. Fernandes, whose friend Noussair Mazraoui plays for Morocco, stated his wish to beat them and exact revenge, highlighting the lasting impact of Morocco's historic achievement as the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semi-final.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Matin.
Bayern Munich is reportedly pursuing Ismael Saibari, a 25-year-old Moroccan international from PSV Eindhoven, to strengthen its midfield. Saibari had an exceptional season, scoring 19 goals and providing 9 assists in 37 appearances across all competitions, and was named the best player in the Eredivisie. According to Foot Mercato, Bayern Munich has already reached an agreement with Saibari on a contract until 2030. However, negotiations with PSV are ongoing regarding the transfer fee. PSV is reportedly demanding at least 50 million euros, excluding bonuses, for the offensive midfielder. Despite the difference in valuation, optimism remains, and discussions are expected to continue. If the transfer materializes, Saibari, currently with the Atlas Lions in the United States for the 2026 World Cup, would join one of Europe's most prestigious clubs.
Over 40,000 Moroccan residents in Spain are encountering significant difficulties with their driving licenses due to Spanish regulations concerning foreign permits. New residents can use their Moroccan license for six months, after which they must regularize their situation, a process proving complex for many. The main challenge for individuals like Abderrahim is passing the Spanish theoretical exams, despite being experienced drivers. This issue stems from a dispute in the early 2000s when Spanish authorities suspended direct conversion of some Moroccan licenses due to falsification and irregularities. Although relations between Rabat and Madrid have improved, and Morocco has modernized its licensing system with digital verification mechanisms, a specific group of Moroccans remains in an administrative gray area. These are individuals who obtained their Moroccan licenses while already legally residing in Spain, which excludes them from direct conversion and necessitates passing Spanish exams. For many, a driving license is crucial for professional and social integration, particularly in sectors like construction, agriculture, and delivery services, where mobility is essential for employment. The prospect of losing the right to drive causes significant concern, impacting income and family stability, in addition to daily constraints like transporting children and handling administrative tasks. Calls are growing for solutions that balance social and professional realities with
Moroccan communities in North American cities like Montreal and New York are showing exceptional mobilization for the 2026 World Cup. Preparations are intensifying, with flags selling out and restaurants and community spaces fully booked for match viewings. This widespread enthusiasm highlights football's role as a cultural unifier, allowing Moroccans in the "New World" to feel connected to their home country. The younger generation of Moroccans residing abroad MREs, born or raised in North America, are leading these efforts, organizing gatherings via social media and creating temporary "Fan Zones." Football serves as a powerful tool for cultural transmission, bringing together generations as parents and grandparents share the experience with their grandchildren. This demonstrates how young people can embrace both integration and their origins, celebrating their dual culture. This display of unity by the Moroccan diaspora will also serve as a significant showcase for the Kingdom's "soft power" internationally. Canadian and American media are expected to cover these large gatherings, projecting an image of a passionate and unified people. This mobilization also highlights the vitality and civic engagement of the Moroccan community to local authorities, as they act as ambassadors for Moroccan culture on a global stage.