Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi believes the current Atlas Lions are stronger than the side that made history by reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, as his team prepares to face France in Thursday’s quarter-final.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Ouahbi insisted Morocco are not satisfied with reaching the last eight and remain fully focused on winning the tournament.
The Atlas Lions booked their place in the quarter-finals after progressing from the group stage before eliminating the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32 and defeating Canada in the Round of 16.
Their reward is another meeting with France, the team that ended Morocco’s historic World Cup run in Qatar four years ago.
Ouahbi dismisses talk of a successful campaign
The Morocco boss rejected suggestions that his side had already exceeded expectations by reaching the quarter-finals, stressing that the tournament will only be judged once it is over.
“When you say we’ve had a successful competition, I don’t like it. Assessments should be made at the end.”
“We’re doing everything to win. We’re not going to listen to those who say what we’ve done is already enough or that France are the favourites. We won’t fall into that trap.”
” we’re playing to reach the semi-finals as if we have our backs against the wall. There are no bonuses. The only bonus is winning the World Cup.”
Ouahbi said his players are determined to keep pushing rather than settle for praise after another impressive campaign.
‘We’re better than in 2022’
The 48-year-old believes Morocco have continued to evolve since their breakthrough performance in Qatar and says both the team and the country’s football structure have improved.
“Our strengths are what brought us back here compared to four years ago. We’re evolving, and so is France.”
“We’re better than we were in 2022. Both federations are working well.”
Ouahbi admitted he still carries regrets from Morocco’s semi-final defeat to France four years ago and wants his players to approach this encounter without fear.
“In 2022, I had regrets as a supporter. We have to play this match without regrets, do better and give 200 per cent without thinking that what we’ve achieved so far is enough.”
“We have to be fiercely competitive.”
Another historic opportunity awaits
Morocco head into the quarter-final full of confidence after victories over the Netherlands and Canada, believing they have what it takes to eliminate another European heavyweight.
France, meanwhile, are aiming to reach a second consecutive World Cup semi-final under Didier Deschamps.
With a place in the last four on the line, Morocco will attempt to surpass their historic 2022 achievement and move one step closer to becoming the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup final.
