Hakimi Confident as Morocco Brace for Brazil Test in World Cup Clash

Morocco’s World Cup campaign faces a major early test as the Atlas Lions prepare to take on five-time champions Brazil in a high-profile Group C encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The fixture, set for Saturday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, is being widely viewed as one of the standout matches of the group stage, with Morocco looking to build on their historic semi-final run at the last tournament.

Captain Achraf Hakimi has acknowledged the scale of the challenge but insists Morocco are approaching the game with belief and collective strength as they prepare to face one of football’s most successful nations.

“We know Brazil very well and we respect their history and quality. Vinicius is a top player, and I’ve faced him several times. To deal with players like him, you must defend as a team with clear organisation and unity,” Hakimi said.

ALSO READ: June 12: Ibadan Southwest Chairmanship Hopeful, Olu Bello Hails Governor Makinde, Urges Nigerians Not to Lose Faith in Democracy

He added that Morocco are not intimidated by Brazil’s reputation, stressing that the squad also possesses the quality needed to compete at the highest level.

“We respect Brazil, but we also believe in ourselves. People sometimes call us the ‘Brazilians of Africa’ because of our style and talent. We are confident and ready to give everything for our country,” he said.

Hakimi further stated that Morocco’s focus remains firmly on starting the tournament strongly rather than being distracted by external expectations or reputation.

ALSO READ: “We’ve Heard Your Pain” — Obidient Movement Calls for Calm Amid NDC Primary Fallout

“We are concentrating on the first match. Our aim is to begin well, then take each game as it comes and try to go further than we did in the last World Cup,” he added.

Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi also expressed confidence in the squad, describing the team environment as positive despite injury setbacks to key players Abde Ezzalzouli and Nayef Aguerd.

“We are happy to be here and fully focused on the challenge ahead. The mood in camp is good, and we trust our preparation, our players, and the principles we have built,” Ouahbi said.

ALSO READ: Governor Adeleke, Leaders Escape Unharmed As Podium Collapse At Osun Rally

He maintained that Morocco will not abandon their playing philosophy despite the high-profile opposition.

“We will not change our principles. We have shown what we are capable of, and we will continue to play our way,” he added.

Morocco enter the clash with renewed ambition following their landmark semi-final achievement in Qatar, while Brazil arrive as one of the tournament favourites with a squad packed with top European-based stars.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Do you want to reach your targeted audience and expand your brand’s visibility?

Advertise with Polity Reporters to place your “message” before the right audience.

For advertising enquiries, reach us through:

Email: bandcommunications001@gmail.com

Facebook: Polity Reporters

WhatsApp: 07043810558

“Journalism is what we need to make democracy work.”

“News is what somebody somewhere wants to suppress; all the rest is advertising.”

“Journalism can never be silent: that is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault.”

“The duty of a journalist is to convey the truth as clearly and fully as possible.”

“Good journalism is about results. It is about affecting your community or your society in the most progressive way.”

“Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed; everything else is public relations.”

“A free press is not a privilege but an organic necessity in a great society.”

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

“Journalism without a moral position is impossible.”

“The function of journalism is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”

Polity Reporters

Polity Reporters brings you news from Nigeria and around the world. The team follows developments closely and reports in a way that helps readers understand what is happening locally and internationally. Every piece is clear, reliable, and useful for anyone who wants to stay informed.