MARRAKECH, Morocco – Just three months before the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Moroccan national football team is undergoing a dramatic shift in leadership. Walid Regragui, the coach who led the Atlas Lions to a historic semi-final appearance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has been replaced by Mohamed Ouahbi, the federation announced Thursday evening. The move, coming after a disappointing finish at the recent Africa Cup of Nations, has sent shockwaves through Moroccan football and raised questions about the team’s preparation for the expanded 48-team tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The decision to part ways with Regragui, who took the helm in August 2022, follows Morocco’s loss to Senegal in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Although the team had shown promise under his guidance – including a remarkable 39-match unbeaten run at home before the defeat – the AFCON final loss, coupled with criticism of the team’s playing style, ultimately led to the change. Regragui, in a televised statement, expressed his loyalty and gratitude, stating, “I leave my position with loyalty, gratitude and certainty of having served my country.”
Mohamed Ouahbi, a Belgo-Moroccan national, steps into the role with significant expectations. He recently guided Morocco’s under-20 team to victory in the semi-final of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, a result that seemingly positioned him as the successor. The question now is whether he can seamlessly transition that success to the senior national team in such a short timeframe. The timing of the change, less than 100 days before the World Cup kicks off, is undeniably risky.
A Historic Run, Followed by Disappointment
Walid Regragui’s tenure as Morocco’s coach was marked by a period of unprecedented success. He inherited a team with potential and quickly molded it into a formidable force. The 2022 World Cup run, where Morocco defeated Spain and Portugal en route to the semi-finals, captivated the world and established the Atlas Lions as a genuine contender on the global stage. This accomplishment made them the first African nation to ever reach a World Cup semi-final.
However, the AFCON 2025 campaign proved to be a setback. Despite a strong qualifying run and the addition of players like Brahim Diaz, the team fell short in the final against Senegal, losing 1-0 after a controversial penalty decision. The match was marred by disruptions and protests, adding to the sense of frustration surrounding the team’s performance. The loss sparked debate about Regragui’s tactics and his ability to deliver a championship.
Geopolitical Considerations and the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup, with its expanded format and North American venues, presents a unique set of challenges. Beyond the on-field competition, the tournament is taking place against a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tension. Reports suggest concerns about the potential for political interference and the influence of figures like Donald Trump on players and the event itself. Whether these concerns will impact team focus remains to be seen.
Morocco will undoubtedly be aiming to build on their 2022 World Cup success. They are currently ranked 8th globally and lead the African continent in the FIFA rankings, a testament to the progress made under Regragui. Ouahbi will need to quickly assess the squad, implement his tactical vision, and foster a cohesive team spirit to ensure Morocco remains a competitive force in the tournament. The group stage draw will be crucial in determining their path through the competition.
Coupe de France and Video Assistant Referee Focus
Beyond the Moroccan coaching change, the upcoming weekend also features the semi-finals of the Coupe de France. Observers are noting a particularly strong field this year, with the competition appearing more open than usual in the absence of Paris Saint-Germain. The matches promise to be exciting and could provide a glimpse of potential future stars.
discussions surrounding video assistant referee (VAR) decisions are expected to be a key topic of debate, as analysts review controversial calls from recent matches. The “Café des Sports” radio program, broadcasting Friday, March 6th at 16:10 UTC (with a rebroadcast at 21:10 UTC), will delve into these issues, featuring insights from Hugo Moissonnier, Benjamin Moukandjo, Remy Ngono, Nabil Djellit, and Anne Dufort Cornilliet. Anne Dufort Cornilliet is serving as the program’s editor-in-chief, with technical direction by Laurent Salerno and video production by Yann Bourdelas & Robin Cussenot.
The Moroccan national team now enters a period of transition, and all eyes will be on Mohamed Ouahbi as he prepares the Atlas Lions for the challenges ahead. The next confirmed checkpoint for the team will be the announcement of the final squad for the 2026 World Cup, expected in May.
What do you feel of the coaching change? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
