We are going for a win – Pim Verbeek

December 1, 2011 (CAF)

Morocco U-23 striker Yacine Qasmi may not be risked in tomorrow’s match against Senegal according to team coach Pim Verbeek. Qasmi is nursing an injury and with the hosts of the verge of qualification Verbeek told Cafonline.com that he will make a final decision with the more important knock-out stage games in mind.

Cafonline.com: How are you going to approach the Senegal game, will you go for the point to ensure qualification?

Verbeek : Our mentality is to always go into matches looking to win of course we are aware of what is needed but we will not be playing for a draw for sure. In the last ten minutes depending on what is happening in the other game if we need a point then we will safeguard that and not leave ourselves vulnerable at that stage, but for eighty minutes we are definitely searching for victory

Cafonline.com: You seem to have a couple of players sitting out the training, what’s the situation with injuries?

Verbeek : We you play three games in six days you are bound to get some injuries and we have some, but nothing major fortunately but the main concern l have is with Yacine Qasmi. We have to see again tomorrow from the medical report how he is but l will not risk playing him when l have more important matches ahead. We will play more matches in the coming days with equally limited time for recovery so I am still to make a decision on Qasmi. If he is not 100% fit l will not play him

Cafonline.com: Every team in the group can still qualify so this makes Senegal dangerous opposition?

Verbeek :  It will be interesting but in fairness, if you don’t mind me saying so we are almost qualified and yes Senegal need to win and a point for us will see us through. So playing from a position where you need to win but a draw still sees you through is a good position to be in. We knew in advance that this would be a great tournament, eight strong teams and as you can see even in the other group it will go down to the last group games too, so it has been a great tournament, what more can you ask for.

Cafonline.com: You have seen Senegal play here twice much does that help you prepare?

Verbeek :  Yes l have watched them but each time they have had different players in including some late arrivals so l am not sure which team will turn up for Senegal. I however know that they are a strong side, with physical presence and have got height in their side. We know their strengths but also their weaknesses and we will map out our strategy with that in mind, but yes l expect a tough game but we will be ready on Friday.