Morocco Predicted Lineup vs. France: World Cup Quarterfinal

Morocco can reach back-to-back World Cup semifinals for the first time in its history on Thursday, but must overcome an extraordinary France team to achieve that feat.

Les Blues provied the opposition for Morocco at the semifinal stage of the 2022 tournament and proved too powerful on that occasion, but the Atlas Lions have improved since then and are playing some excellent soccer under progressive manager Mohamed Ouahbi.

The 49-year-old's credentials might be tested at Gillette Stadium given the potential absence of star forward Ismael Saibari, who is battling a hamstring issue sustained in the round of 16 and was absent from training on Wednesday. But Morocco boasts impressive depth beyond its established XI.

Here's how Africa's last remaining representative could line up for the quarterfinal.

Morocco Predicted Lineup vs. France

CM: Neil El Aynaoui-The Roma midfielder, who will likely come up against clubmate Manu Koné, has been snapping into tackles all summer along, and is the perfect screen for Ouahbi's defensive line.

CM: Ayyoub Bouaddi-Major transfer interest in Lille's Bouaddi is unsurprising after his breakout tournament, but the 18-year-old must try and ignore the outside noise against a few familiar foes from Ligue 1.

RW: Brahim Díaz-Only France's Michael Olise (five) has registered more assists than Brahim's four at the World Cup. The diminutive playmaker is crucial to unpicking a resilient France defense that has conceded just twice.

AM: Azzedine Ounahi-The Girona midfielder showcased his precision finishing against Canada, twice firing beyond Maxime Crépeau to clinch Morocco's second successive quarterfinal berth.

LW: Bilal El Khannouss-Mazraoui will need help dealing with Dembélé, meaning El Khannouss might not be offered the same attacking freedoms he typically enjoys out wide.

ST: Soufiane Rahimi-Saibari will be a gargantuan miss up front should he be ruled out, but Al Ain striker Rahimi scored against Canada and has now averaged exactly a goal every three games for the national team (14 in 42 matches).

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This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 9:30 AM.