Sofiane Diop Joins Morocco’s World Cup Quest After Switch from France U-21

Selected in the list of players called up by Walid Regragui for the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, the OGC Nice player Sofiane Diop is living with pride this opportunity to represent Morocco. On Monday, he participated in the first training session of the Atlas Lions. "I am very honored to be here today with the national team, it represents a lot of work and sacrifice. I am very happy to be here today," says the Franco-Senegalese-Moroccan player. He says he has followed the journey of the Moroccan national team - semi-finalist of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar - which he is honored to join. "It’s a pride for my whole family, I can’t wait to show it on the field. Dima Maghrib," added the new gem of the Atlas Lions.

Solicited by Senegal and Morocco, the countries of his parents, the Franco-Senegalese-Moroccan player chose to join the den of the Atlas Lions. "He is a player who could have chosen other countries, but he chose Morocco," said Walid Regragui during a press conference in Rabat. Born in Tours, France, Sofiane was trained at Stade Rennais FC. He spends the majority of his junior international career with the French team up to the under-21s. This year, he chooses to defend the Moroccan colors. "His decision has been made for a long time and now is the time. He was injured during the last gathering [...] but that is no longer the case," added the coach of the Moroccan national team, who does not skimp on praise for the young player. He is a "talented player," he assured.

Classified in group E, the Atlas Lions will face Tanzania on November 21 in Dar Es Salaam as part of the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

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