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Morocco boss hails team’s fighting spirit for World Cup success
30th June, 2026 02:46 PM
Morocco national team head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has credited the side’s unwavering confidence and belief in their style of play after the Atlas Lions staged a dramatic comeback to eliminate the Netherlands on penalties and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16 on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
Morocco fought back from a goal behind at Monterrey Stadium before prevailing in the shootout, earning a knockout clash against co-hosts Canada in Houston on July 4, 2026.
Reflecting on the victory, Ouahbi said his squad’s faith in themselves has been the driving force behind their impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
“We believe in ourselves, in our game plan and in our identity,” Ouahbi told a post-match news conference. “What’s important to me is that the players know what to do, irrespective of the scenario,” he explained.
Replicating 2022 success
The coach also pointed to Morocco’s historic run to the semifinals at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar as a defining moment that transformed the team’s mentality.
“Talk is cheap. What matters is what we do on the pitch,” said Ouahbi, who replaced Walid Regragui as national team boss in March 2026.
“The World Cup in Qatar changed the mentality of the Morocco team. In recent years, Moroccan players have come to believe in themselves, and the fans have too. They are demanding, but they know how far we can go.” The tactician said.
The Netherlands appeared destined for victory after Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute. However, Morocco refused to surrender, with Issa Diop finding a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser in the 91st minute to force extra time.
Neither side managed another goal during the additional 30 minutes, although Morocco created the better opportunities. The penalty shootout initially favoured the Dutch, who took an early advantage before their hopes unravelled as Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crysencio Summerville all failed from the spot.
Morocco made the most of those misses, with Soufiane Rahimi and Chemsdine Talbi converting their penalties before Ismael Saibari calmly dispatched the decisive kick past Bart Verbruggen to seal qualification for the last 16.
Despite the confidence surrounding his side, Ouahbi warned against underestimating Canada, insisting Morocco must remain fully focused if they are to continue their World Cup journey.
“People think it’s a walk in the park, but that’s not the case. Canada will be difficult,” he said. “We need to rest and prepare. We are unstoppable if we play the football we know we’re capable of playing. But if we get things wrong, we’ll be going home. We have to use all the tools at our disposal to go as far as we can.”
Fans’ support
Ouahbi also expressed his appreciation for the warm reception Morocco received from supporters in Mexico and said he hopes to return the favour when Morocco co-hosts the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
“Hopefully, at the next World Cup, we’ll make Mexican fans feel at home too. I’m sure they’ll have a stadium cheering just for them.” He added.
