World Cup 2018 power rankings
By James Dudko
23. Morocco
Don’t expect Morocco to be pushovers, even in a Group B likely to be bossed by Spain and Portugal. There is simply too much experience and craft for this squad not to at least be difficult to beat.
The defense is talented thanks to the presence of Juventus center-back Medhi Benatia. He’s a seasoned international who can be guilty of rash decisions, but still rarely shirks a challenge.
Benatia will be helped by the presence of Achraf Hakimi at the back. The 19-year-old is good enough to be on the books at Real Madrid, and his pace will be vital in helping subdue club team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo against Portugal.
Morocco’s resources are also ample in attack, where Nordin Amrabat offers pace from the flanks and an eye for goal. The eye for a defense-splitting pass comes from Younes Belhanda, a 28-year-old schemer as creative as any player when at his best.
In another group Morocco would likely find some joy. Yet their task will be too much of an uphill struggle with Spain and Portugal on the case.