Morocco's Atlas Lions Outshine Europeans in Talent Hunt
In the context of the 2026 World Cup, the competition between Morocco and the Netherlands in securing top players from expats in the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and Spain is one of the most significant sports events currently. According to a report, Shaqueel van Persie, son of Robin, may declare for Morocco, which is his mother's country.
What happened?
In the past years, the Dutch were winning the talent hunt, but now the Atlas Lions are outshining Europeans in this competition. The report mentions that 14 of Morocco's players in the 2022 World Cup were born outside of Morocco, including four born in the Netherlands: Hakim Ziyech, Noussair Mazraoui, Sofyan Amrabat, and Zakaria Aboukhlal.
Why does this matter for Morocco?
This year, 19 of Morocco's players were born outside of Morocco, including three born in the Netherlands: Noussair Mazraoui, Sofyan Amrabat, and Anass Salah-Eddine. This competition is one of the most significant sports events currently, as the Atlas Lions are considered one of the best teams in the world.
What comes next?
This year, the Atlas Lions will be strong contenders in the World Cup, and they will try to achieve the best results. The competition between the Atlas Lions and the Dutch will continue in securing top players from expats in the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and Spain.
Recent form (last 5): 2W-2D-1L (LDWDW, most recent first)
Last result: France 2-0 Morocco (2026-07-09). Recent form (last 5): 2W-2D-1L (LDWDW, most recent first).
