Morocco Ready for Brazil Challenge With or Without Neymar, Says Wahbi

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has declared that his side’s approach to their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C clash against Brazil will remain unchanged regardless of whether Brazilian superstar Neymar is available for the encounter.

Speaking ahead of the blockbuster fixture, Ouahbi acknowledged the quality and influence of the veteran forward but insisted that the Atlas Lions are fully prepared to face the five-time world champions under any circumstances.

“Our plan for Neymar will not change. We are prepared to face Brazil with or without Neymar. Maybe something can change for Brazil if Neymar is in the team because we all know his qualities,” the Moroccan tactician said.

The Merit Newspaper reports that the comments reflect the growing confidence within the Moroccan camp following the nation’s remarkable rise on the global stage in recent years. Morocco, who became the first African country to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, are no longer content with merely competing against football’s traditional powerhouses but are determined to challenge them.

While Neymar’s participation remains uncertain due to fitness concerns, Brazil boast an array of attacking talents capable of causing problems for any opponent. Nevertheless, Ouahbi stressed that Morocco’s preparation has been based on collective discipline and belief rather than focusing on individual stars.

The Atlas Lions enter the tournament with renewed optimism and an experienced core that includes players competing at the highest level in Europe. Their opening encounter against Brazil is expected to be one of the standout matches of the group stage.

For Brazil, the clash offers an opportunity to underline their status as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, while Morocco will be aiming to prove that their historic World Cup exploits four years ago were no fluke.

With or without Neymar, Ouahbi’s message is clear: Morocco are ready for the challenge.

The Group C showdown between Brazil and Morocco is expected to attract global attention as two nations with contrasting football traditions seek to begin their World Cup campaign on a winning note.