World Cup 2026: Morocco draw 1-1 with Norway in pre-tournament friendly

Morocco and Norway played out a 1-1 draw on Sunday night in an international friendly match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The encounter formed part of both nations' final build-up to the global tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Played at Sports Illustrated Stadium, the match provided both coaches with a valuable opportunity to assess their squads before the start of the competition.

The Atlas Lions looked dangerous from the opening minutes and nearly took the lead in the sixth minute when Abde Ezzalzouli unleashed a long-range effort after receiving a precise pass. However, Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland was well-positioned to make a routine save.

Just two minutes later, Morocco found the breakthrough through Brahim Diaz. The midfielder latched onto a clever pass from Ezzalzouli, cut inside his marker and fired a superb shot into the bottom left corner to put his side ahead.

The goal rewarded Morocco's strong start and gave them a deserved advantage early in the contest.

Norway thought they had drawn level in the 17th minute when Alexander Sorloth found the back of the net. However, the celebrations were cut short after the referee ruled out the goal for a foul in the buildup.

The Scandinavian side continued to push for an equaliser and eventually found one 15 minutes from time.

Oscar Bobb provided the assist with a well-weighted pass inside the penalty area, allowing Martin Odegaard to calmly slot the ball into the net and restore parity for Norway.

The draw brings an end to Morocco's pre-tournament schedule as the Atlas Lions now turn their full attention to the World Cup.

Morocco will begin their campaign against Brazil before facing Scotland and Haiti in Group C as they seek to build on their historic run to the semifinals at the 2022 World Cup.