Morocco national football team delivered a strong second-half performance to defeat Paraguay national football team 2–1 in an international friendly in Lens on Tuesday, handing coach Mohamed Ouahbi his first victory in charge.
After a frustrating first half, Morocco found their cutting edge after the break, with Bilal El Khannouss and Neil El Aynaoui striking within seven minutes to turn the game on its head.
BOUNOU STANDS TALL EARLY
Despite dominating possession in the opening half, Morocco struggled to break down a compact Paraguay side.
Instead, it was Paraguay who looked more dangerous on the counter, forcing Yassine Bounou into action.
The goalkeeper produced a stunning double save in the 22nd minute to keep the scores level, while Diego Gómez squandered a golden opportunity before halftime.
SECOND-HALF SPARK
Morocco came out with renewed purpose and were rewarded almost immediately.
In the 47th minute, Achraf Hakimi surged down the right and delivered a precise cutback, which El Khannouss calmly finished to open the scoring.
Seven minutes later, the same combination struck again.
Hakimi was once more the provider, whipping in a low cross that El Aynaoui converted after a swift attacking move to double Morocco’s lead.
LATE DRAMA
Paraguay refused to go quietly.
They thought they had pulled one back in the 86th minute through Omar Alderete, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Moments later, however, Caballero rose to head home and reduce the deficit, setting up a nervy finale.
But Morocco held firm to secure the win.
A BOOST FOR OUAHBI
After last week’s 1–1 draw with Ecuador, this result marks an important early milestone for Ouahbi.
His side showed improved attacking sharpness in the second half, while still relying on Bounou’s experience and composure between the posts.
FINAL WORD
It wasn’t perfect but it was progress.
For Morocco, this victory offers momentum, belief, and a glimpse of what this new era under Ouahbi could become.
