Rabat – Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed satisfaction with his side’s start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign after the Atlas Lions secured a 2-0 victory over Lesotho today.
The result at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein gave Morocco six points from their opening two Group A matches, following their 2-0 victory over Gabon in Rabat on Friday.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Ouahbi said taking maximum points from the opening two fixtures was an important objective, while acknowledging that his team still has several areas to improve.
“It was important for us to take six points from these two matches. We wanted to make a good start. There are many positive things, but there are also areas we still need to develop and improve,” Ouahbi said.
The coach also spoke positively about Morocco’s trip and the reception the team received during its stay.
Morocco Create Chances Despite Difficult Conditions
Ouahbi said Morocco controlled the match for most of the 90 minutes despite facing a compact Lesotho defense and a playing surface that made certain aspects of their game more difficult.
“We controlled the game throughout, but on a pitch like this, we needed to be very precise technically, particularly with our passing, build-up play and approach toward the opponent’s goal,” The Moroccan coach said.
Morocco created several chances but were unable to convert more of their opportunities. Ouahbi said improving their finishing would remain an area of focus, both technically and mentally.
The coach nevertheless considered the overall performance positive, saying his players maintained their concentration and discipline while delivering a strong collective display.
Brahim Diaz opened the scoring shortly before halftime, and Azzedine Ounahi doubled Morocco’s advantage in the 82nd minute.
The victory gave Morocco a second consecutive clean sheet and left the Atlas Lions with six points from their first two Group A qualifiers.
Morocco will next face Ghana in an international friendly scheduled for October 4 at the Grand Stade de Tanger.
