2026 World Cup: ‘I’m very hopeful’ – Troost-Ekong predicts Morocco vs France

Former Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has said that he is hopeful that Morocco will upset France and further Africa’s historic journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Troost-Ekong commended the advancements made by African teams on the international stage, emphasizing Morocco’s extraordinary achievement at the 2022 World Cup, where they became the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

He asserted that the performances of African teams in the current tournament demonstrate their ability to compete with the world’s elite.

Reflecting on Morocco’s historic campaign four years, Troost-Ekong said, “At the last World Cup, Morocco dismantled those barriers and showcased what is achievable.

“From what we have observed thus far in this tournament, numerous African teams, players, and individual performances have proven that they can stand toe-to-toe with the very best globally.

“I am very hopeful that this could be the World Cup where an African team surpasses Morocco’s achievements. If they reach that level, I hope they can go all the way,” he stated.

Morocco’s remarkable performances have once again positioned them as the leading African contenders in the tournament, and Troost-Ekong believes the Atlas Lions embody the continent’s best chance of making history.

As Morocco gears up for a highly anticipated match against France on Thursday, 9 July, Troost-Ekong feels they will once again bear the hopes of millions of African fans.

“Morocco is undoubtedly the first team that comes to mind,” he remarked.

Troost-Ekong also recognized the contributions of other African nations that made an impression during the tournament, highlighting the performances of Senegal and Ivory Coast prior to their eliminations.

He said, “Senegal and Ivory Coast both performed exceptionally well until their exits, and they were somewhat unfortunate.”