Brazilian FA President: 'Facing Morocco is an Honor and Will Be Remembered Forever'
Samir Chaud, President of the Brazilian Football Confederation, stated that facing the Moroccan national team in Brazil's opening match of the 2026 World Cup represents a significant "honor" for the Seleção, given the prominent position the "Atlas Lions" now hold on the global football stage.
Speaking to the Moroccan News Agency (MAP) from Brazil's capital, Brasília, Chaud said: "For the Brazilian national team to begin its 2026 World Cup journey by facing the Moroccan national team is an honor for us, because we will be facing a team that has amazed the world with its organization, composure, and footballing identity."
He added: "Fans will undoubtedly witness a match of a very high technical level, bringing together two ancient footballing schools characterized by vitality, passion, and international recognition."
Chaud continued: "Starting the World Cup campaign with a match of this magnitude underscores the importance of preparation and focus, and I am certain that this match will remain etched in footballing memory."
The Brazilian FA President lauded Morocco's growing stature on the international sports scene, emphasizing that the development achieved by the Kingdom in recent years is admirable and commendable.
He stated: "Morocco's long-term vision, its infrastructure that meets international standards, and the priority it gives to training have clearly contributed to creating a more competitive environment."
He added: "Co-hosting the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal has further enhanced Morocco's global standing, and this is something that inspires admiration and appreciation."
Chaud further noted: "Global football becomes richer when new powers emerge thanks to strong projects, and without a doubt, Morocco is one of these powers."
Regarding the Brazilian national team, Chaud explained that the Seleção has entered a new phase under Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, indicating that the current project aims to combine the historical individual talent of Brazilian players with achieving collective balance within the team.
He also praised the historic achievement of the Moroccan national team in recent years, saying: "Morocco deserves all our appreciation for what it has achieved, having changed the world's perception of African football."
He concluded by saying: "We carry an exceptional legacy with five world titles, but that imposes on us the responsibility for continuous development, because modern football requires more than just shining names; it needs organization, discipline, flexibility, and sound planning."
The Brazilian national team is in Group C alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. They will open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13 at 23:00 (GMT+1).
