Ouahbi urges Morocco to play best football against Canada
Houston, July 4
Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his team must play their best football to survive against Canada in their World Cup round of 16 match on Saturday. He warned that there is no room for mistakes in the knockout stage.
Morocco's road to the Round of 16 has been challenging, with five-time winners Brazil their first opponents and a hugely creditable 1-1 draw secured. Second place in Group C saw the Atlas Lions paired with three-times finalists the Netherlands in the Round of 32.
"This will be a difficult match, a very difficult match," Ouahbi said. "We are playing in the round of 16 of the World Cup. The team we are facing is a very good team. If we are not at our level, we will return home."
The coach confirmed his squad is in great shape. "Everyone is fine, and the players who will play will be ready one hundred percent," he said.
Ouahbi also spoke about Brahim Diaz, who has faced some criticism recently. "The problem with elite players is that we always expect more from them," he said. "For me, what makes me happy is that he is healthy and works hard defensively. It is true he has not reached his AFCON level, but I don't only judge him by goals or assists."
"I think Brahim has freedom. We are at the World Cup, not the AFCON. They are two completely different tournaments," the coach said. "He has played a lot, he has already provided two decisive assists, and I hope he scores goals in this World Cup."
Morocco earned its place in the round of 16 after edging the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time. The victory sets up a knockout clash against Canada, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake.
The Atlas Lions are seeking a second consecutive World Cup quarterfinal appearance after making history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Morocco is unbeaten in the four encounters between the two sides. They met in group stage at the 2022 Qatar World Cup and Morocco won 2-1.
"What I like most about Canada is their organisation and their activity," Ouahbi said. "They know exactly what to do with the ball. They show great concentration. They are a very good team."
"Our players love having the ball, but they also know how to run for long periods," he said. "We wanted players with both speed and technical quality, and fortunately we have many players who combine both."
The African side broke new ground at Qatar 2022 by becoming the first nation from their continent to reach the final four. If Morocco wins, it will become the first African team to reach the World Cup last eight more than once.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Actually, I feel a bit worried about Morocco's defense. They conceded against Netherlands and could have conceded more. Canada's counter-attacking style could exploit that. But if Ziyech and Hakimi click, they can beat anyone on their day.
As an Indian football fan, I'm loving the rise of African teams in World Cup. Morocco's journey from group stage to semis in 2022 was inspirational. Their fans are absolutely amazing too - such passion! Hope they make history again.
Coach Ouahbi seems to have a clear strategy - he knows every team has weaknesses and strengths. I like how he's backing Brahim Diaz despite criticism. That's what good managers do. But they need to be more clinical in front of goal.
Honestly, I think Morocco might struggle against Canada's pace. Alphonso Davies on the left against Hakimi on the right will be an epic battle! But Morocco's midfield control with Amrabat and Ounahi could be key. Should be a cracker of a match!
Morocco's defense was rock solid in 2022 - only one goal conceded in group stage against Croatia! If they can replicate that form, they have a real chance. Canada has improved a lot though. This is going to be a tight match.
K We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.