World Cup expectations grow as FIFA president backs Morocco

Infantino made the remarks during a video Q&A session on his official Instagram page while responding to a fan who asked whether Morocco could go all the way at the next World Cup.

"Yes, Morocco can win the next World Cup. Morocco qualified for the semi-final at the last World Cup, which was very special, and Morocco just won the Under-20 World Cup," Infantino said as quoted by Moroccoworldnews.com.

Those achievements have transformed Morocco's standing in global football. Their historic run to the semifinals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar marked the first time an African nation reached the final four, changing perceptions of what teams from the continent are capable of achieving on the biggest stage.

According to Infantino, Morocco's progress reflects a deeper evolution rather than a one-off success.

"Morocco has developed not just technical quality with the players on the field, but also the conviction that it is one of the powerhouses of global football. Which definitely it has become," he said.

That belief has been reinforced by success at youth level, with Morocco's recent U20 World Cup triumph highlighting a strong development pipeline and long-term planning.

Infantino also credited institutional stability and leadership as major contributors to the country's rise, praising the work of the Moroccan Football Federation and the widespread passion for football across the nation.

"I would put them among the favourites for the World Cup," he added.

Morocco's growing reputation is shared by several high-profile figures in the game. Thierry Henry has described the Atlas Lions as "very strong," while former Germany international Toni Kroos believes their technical improvement and composure could see them make another deep run. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has also acknowledged the challenge they present.

Drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti, Morocco enter the expanded 48-team tournament armed with belief, experience and depth - no longer outsiders, but a team the world now expects to deliver.