Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi has set a unique record at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of their quarterfinal match against France. The midfielder has become the second-youngest player to feature in a World Cup quarterfinal in the tournament's history, at the age of 18 years and 280 days.
Bouaddi Behind Pele in World Cup History
According to OptaJoe, Ayyoub Bouaddi now sits just below Brazilian legend Pele, who was 17 years and 239 days old when he played in Brazil's 1958 World Cup quarterfinal against Wales, as reported by ESPN. That record has stood for 68 years, and Bouaddi's appearance in the 2026 tournament places him in extraordinarily rare company alongside one of football's greatest icons.
The Lille star is not only the youngest player at this stage of the 2026 tournament, but he is also the first African player to appear in a World Cup quarterfinal at such a young age, underlining Morocco's growing stature as a continental football powerhouse.
Morocco's Historic Run Continues
Morocco's run to the quarterfinals continues to build on the historic precedent the Atlas Lions set at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, when they became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semifinals of a World Cup. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi listed the teenage midfielder to feature for the Atlas Lions against two-time World Champions, France.
Fan Reactions
Legit.ng compiled the reactions of some fans as the Moroccan created a unique feat. @aimshrim said: "Only Pelé reached a World Cup quarterfinal at a younger age. That's extraordinary company for Ayyoub Bouaddi to keep at just 18." @ZeeofLagos added: "When the only player younger than you is Pelé, you're doing something extraordinary. Joining Pelé in the World Cup record books at 18… that's a statement."
