Morocco and Egypt Dominate: Best Arab XI for World Cup 2026

Leading data network Opta has released the best Arab XI for the World Cup 2026 featuring a heavily polarized squad of North African stars.

A Tale of Two Nations

When it comes to top tier footballing representation from the Middle East and North Africa this summer, the data paints a very clear picture.

According to the global statistics network Opta, the ideal Arab lineup is completely monopolized by just two countries:

• Morocco
• Egypt

This elite selection leaves fans from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, Jordan, Tunisia and Algeria without a single player to cheer for in the dream team.

Knockout Stage Pedigree

The heavy bias towards these two nations is firmly backed by their on pitch success during the tournament. The Atlas Lions roared all the way into the quarter finals, eventually bowing out against a powerhouse French side.

Meanwhile, the Pharaohs successfully navigated their way to the Round of 16. Despite an early knockout exit, Egypt delivered a heroic performance that caught the analysts' eyes suffering an agonizingly narrow 3-2 defeat against defending champions Argentina.

The Pharaohs Secure Crucial Roles

Egypt claims four vital spots in the starting eleven. Between the sticks, Mostafa Shobeir earned the number one jersey, remarkably beating out Morocco’s world class shot stopper Yassine Bounou for the position.

Joining Shobeir from the Egyptian camp are rugged center back Yasser Ibrahim, dynamic midfielder Emam Ashour and their talismanic captain Mohamed Salah leading the frontline.

Atlas Lions Dominate the Field

Morocco commands the lion's share of the squad with 7 premium selections. Their defensive solidity is highlighted by a backline featuring Achraf Hakimi, Chadi Riad and Noussair Mazraoui.

In the middle of the park, the creative trio of Brahim Diaz, Azzedine Ounahi and Neil El Aynaoui dictate the play. Up top, lethal goalscorer Ismael Saibari partners Salah to complete a terrifying attacking duo.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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