DR ‹ › Paraguay national team coach Gustavo Alfaro believes Morocco is a «serious contender» to win the 2026 World Cup and even the 2030 edition, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Tuesday's friendly against Morocco national football team, Alfaro said Moroccan football is undergoing «continuous development that is reflected in the team's performances». «I see them as strong contenders in this World Cup, and even more so in the next one», he added. He highlighted Morocco's recent trajectory, from reaching the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar to winning the U-20 World Cup, as well as their recent 1–1 draw against Ecuador in Madrid, describing the team as a «successful model to follow». Looking ahead to the match, Alfaro said he plans to largely stick with the lineup that secured a 1–0 friendly win over Greece national football team, with a goal from Diego Gómez, while leaving room for minor adjustments depending on players' fitness levels.
