Morocco faces Canada in a World Cup clash where 69% of the Atlas Lions' squad was born outside the kingdom. The match underscores how enlarged rosters and loosened FIFA eligibility rules are transforming national team composition.
The phenomenon isn't unique to Morocco—dual nationals increasingly feature across tournaments. But Morocco's heavy reliance on diaspora players amplifies questions about identity and competitive balance, as federations recruit from migrating populations.
Expanded 26-player squads, adopted for the 2026 World Cup, allow teams to include more depth and specialized options. This shift advantages nations with large overseas communities, enabling deeper talent pools beyond domestic leagues.
Critics argue the trend weakens traditional development pathways and can undermine local academies. Others see it as a natural evolution in a globalized sport, where players often hold multiple passports and seek competitive opportunities.