Morocco’s dream came to an end against France. The day after the Atlas Lions were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup, Yassine Bounou offered neither excuses nor pretence. Speaking to Argentine television, the Moroccan goalkeeper gave a frank assessment of Les Bleus’ superiority, while urging his team to «rebuild».
France's 2-0 victory over Morocco prompted large post-match gatherings across Europe, where authorities had deployed extensive security measures in anticipation of possible unrest. While Paris remained largely peaceful, scattered disorder was reported in several Dutch cities and violent clashes broke out in London, leaving a police officer injured.
After seven years of deadlock, the Morocco-France High Joint Commission will meet next week in Rabat. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will be accompanied by around ten ministers for the high-level meeting, which marks a new stage in the rapprochement between the two countries.
As Morocco prepares to face France in the World Cup quarter-finals, fans with pre-existing health conditions may be at greater risk of health complications as emotions run high. Here's how to watch the match safely.