Rabat – Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has commended the work of his technical staff ahead of the Atlas Lions’ World Cup last-16 match against Canada.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Ouahbi said Morocco’s success at the tournament is the result of collective work inside the national team.
“As I always say, if I had to describe myself, I would say that one of my most important qualities is that I like to have competent people around me,” Ouahbi said.
Ouahbi said his staff played an important role during Morocco’s round-of-32 match against the Netherlands.
The Atlas Lions were behind before coming back to force extra time and later winning the penalty shootout 3-2.
Ouahbi said the halftime discussion was important in helping Morocco improve after the break.
“After the first half against the Netherlands, we met to watch and analyze the footage to prepare the right plan for the second half,” he said.
“I do not work with just one or two people. We have a large staff, and everyone gives their opinion. In the end, we come out with the best possible solution.”
He added that Morocco’s second-half display showed the value of that collective approach.
“We showed in the second half that we were more effective,” he said.
‘Hidden soldiers’
Ouahbi ended his comments by describing the members of his staff as an important part of Morocco’s World Cup campaign.
“We have a staff made up of people who are the hidden soldiers,” he said. “Without them, we cannot go far.”
His comments came as Morocco prepare to face Canada on Saturday at Houston Stadium.
The match will start at 6 p.m. Moroccan time.
Morocco reached the last 16 after eliminating the Netherlands on penalties, while Canada advanced after beating South Africa 1-0.
The winner will qualify for the quarterfinals and face either France or Paraguay.
