Morocco Set to Face France in World Cup Quarterfinals: A Focus on Performance, Not Revenge
As the excitement builds for the quarterfinal match between Morocco and France at the upcoming 2026 World Cup, the Moroccan team is determined to approach this pivotal encounter without any lingering feelings of revenge from their previous meeting in the 2022 semifinals. Coach Mo Ouhabi and midfielder Azzedine Ounahi emphasize a focus on performance and preparation rather than dwelling on past disappointments. The Moroccan team, which has shown impressive resilience and skill in its journey to the quarterfinals, aims to leverage its strengths against a formidable French side that boasts significant talent and speed.
Having navigated the group stage with relative ease, Morocco's path to the quarterfinals saw them triumph over the Netherlands in a tense penalty shootout during the round of 16. They then delivered a convincing 3-0 victory against Canada in the subsequent match. Ouhabi, reflecting on the match against Canada, noted the team's maturity and adaptability, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure in high-stakes situations. "When you finish a match like that, where you need to battle, and you win 3-0, I believe it’s a notable achievement," he stated, emphasizing the team's growth and readiness for the upcoming challenge.
Taking the helm of the Moroccan national team after the Africa Cup of Nations, Ouhabi recalls the emotional semifinal against France in 2022, where he felt that the team left opportunities unfulfilled. "I exited that match with regrets. I thought, 'it's unfortunate, we could have done more. There were chances, a penalty that wasn't called.' The main thing now is to not have regrets this time," he explained. However, he firmly asserts that the notion of revenge will not be a driving force for his players. "I don’t like that mindset. It’s not about revenge for us. We want to win this match because our goal is to reach the semifinals. Nothing else matters. It’s crucial for us to maintain this pressure and the desire to move forward, believing in ourselves—that’s what counts the most. The rest won’t win us the match, believe me," he added.
Ouhabi recognizes the strengths of the French team, acknowledging their quality players and solid defensive structure. Yet, he maintains a confident outlook, reiterating his belief that no team is invincible. "It’s a good team. They have quality players up front with a lot of speed and power. A solid block and a great central defense. It’s a well-rounded team. But as I’ve said, I will keep saying it: no one is unbeatable. No team. Not them, not us, and nobody else. So what we need to do is execute our game plan effectively. We need to recover well and prepare to play this match to win," he declared.
Ounahi Remembers the 2022 Semifinal Experience
Azzedine Ounahi, who was instrumental in Morocco’s victory over Canada with his two goals, also recalls the semifinal against France. This experience is still fresh in his mind and serves as motivation for the upcoming match. "That semifinal is always in our memories," he indicated, underscoring the emotional weight of the previous encounter while reiterating the team's commitment to focusing on the present and their immediate goals. As the Moroccan squad gears up for this critical clash, their resolve to perform at their best without the burden of past grievances could very well be the key to their success.
As reported by rtbf.be.
