NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY — Newcastle United and Brazil national team midfielder Bruno Guimarães has highly praised the Moroccan national football team, describing their current squad as one of the finest generations the North African nation has ever produced. Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup 2026 opening group stage clash between the Seleção and the Atlas Lions this Saturday, June 13, the midfield maestro emphasized that Brazil holds immense respect for their opponents.

​"I see the Moroccan national team in a very good shape right now," Guimarães stated during the official FIFA pre-match press conference. "In my opinion, this current generation is truly one of the best, if not the best, in their football history. They have proven their quality on the global stage, and they possess world-class talent playing at the absolute highest level in Europe."

​The 28-year-old midfielder didn't shy away from acknowledging the tactical discipline and physical resilience that Morocco brings to the pitch. He warned that the Seleção expects nothing less than an intense tactical battle in their tournament opener at the New York New Jersey Stadium, but remained confident in his team's objectives.

​"We have tremendous respect for them," Guimarães added. "We know exactly what they are capable of, and we are fully aware that it is going to be a very difficult and demanding match for us to start our World Cup campaign. However, our goal remains unchanged. We hope to showcase high-quality football, execute our game plan perfectly, and ultimately secure the victory."

​The upcoming Matchday 1 fixture between the South American giants and the Atlas Lions is generating massive interest globally, as both teams look to make a powerful statement in their official 2026 World Cup debut.