World Cup 2026: Potential Knockout Opponents Awaiting Morocco

Rabat – Morocco heads into the final round of Group C fixtures in a strong position after collecting four points from its first two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A draw against Brazil and a victory over Scotland have left the Atlas Lions within touching distance of the Round of 32.

With the Atlas Lions taking on Haiti’s already eliminated Les Grenadiers and Brazil facing Scotland simultaneously, Mohamed Ouahbi’s side enters Matchday 3 knowing that several scenarios could take shape – both in the final group standings and in the identity of their first knockout opponent.

Morocco can still top Group C

Morocco currently sits level on points with Brazil but trails the Seleção on goal difference.

If Morocco defeats Haiti and Brazil drops points against Scotland, the Atlas Lions could top Group C and secure a potentially more favorable match in the Round of 32.

Finishing first would pit Morocco against the runner-up of Group F. At the moment, that position could be occupied by the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden, depending on the final results in the group.

Morocco can finish second

If both Morocco and Brazil win their respective matches, the final standings could come down to goal difference.

Should Brazil maintain its superior goal difference, Morocco would finish second in Group C.

In that case, the Atlas Lions would face the winner of Group F in the Round of 32. As things stand, the Netherlands and Japan are the leading contenders for first place, making this route considerably more challenging.

Could Morocco finish third?

A defeat against Haiti combined with a Scotland victory over Brazil would complicate matters and could drop Morocco to third place.

However, the expanded 48-team World Cup allows eight of the twelve third-placed teams to advance. Four points have historically been enough to qualify, meaning Morocco would still stand an excellent chance of progressing even if it slips to third.

In that scenario, the Atlas Lions could face one of several group winners, including Germany, the United States, England, Spain, Argentina, Colombia, or another top seed.