Juventus center-back Medhi Benatia, 31, anchors a well-rounded and organized defense and is certainly the most decorated squad member. A former Italian Serie A all-star player, Benatia also captains the team and his leadership both on and off the pitch will be crucial to any success the Atlas Lions have. Benatia will face his former Bayern Munich teammate Thiago when Morocco take on Spain.

Further forward, 25-year-old Ajax midfielder Hakim Ziyech is the fulcrum of Morocco's attacking play. The former Netherlands U-21 international scored nine goals and made a league-leading 15 assists in the Dutch Eredivisie this season, being named Dutch Footballer of the Year for his troubles. Morocco will be looking to his vision and creativity if they are to spring any surprises in Russia.

Elsewhere, rising star Achraf Hakimi has just lifted the Champions League trophy with La Liga giants Real Madrid. The Spanish-born wing-back made his senior debut for the Los Blancos earlier this season and has proven an able deputy for Dani Carvajal.

On the only previous occasion Morocco advanced into the World Cup's second stage, they held England and Poland to goalless draws before defeating Portugal to top their group. And if the Atlas Lions are to repeat the heroics of 32 years ago in Russia this summer, perhaps another victory against Portugal may be necessary.

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