By Emeka Dennar
Former Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze says he is hopeful Morocco can go all the way to the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup currently underway in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.The Atlas Lions made history in Qatar 2022 as the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final.
In 2026, they booked a last-32 tie with three-time finalists Netherlands after finishing unbeaten and second in Group C. Udeze, 45, who featured for Nigeria at Korea/Japan 2002, also tipped seven-time African champions Egypt to impress at the tournament.
“We are hoping to see Morocco impress at the World Cup, because in 2022 they went as far as getting to the semi-finals,” the erstwhile West Brom defender told Exceed Media in an exclusive interview.
“This year, you never can tell, they can equally get to the semis or even get to the Final and try to win the World Cup as well. Also, you never can tell, Egypt too can go far. We just wish them all the very best.”
The former defender said he would love to see all 10 African nations at the tournament go far, but admitted it was unlikely.
“If it is my making, I will want to see all the 10 countries representing Africa reach the Round of 32 and proceed to the quarter finals. If possible all of them can even get to the semis. But it is not possible. That is the truth. So, let’s just wish them well and see how far they can go.”
