Monterrey: Coach of the Moroccan national football team, Mohamed Ouahbi, says his team has earned respect after Morocco edged the Netherlands 2-3 on penalty shootouts in their round 32 clash on Monday. The Africans came out top in the penalty shootouts after a 1-1 draw in Monterrey, Mexico, setting up a round of 16 clash against co-hosts Canada.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Morocco Coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed confidence in his team’s on-field achievements. “Morocco has gained everybody’s respect now. It’s not because of what we’ve said. We’ve now shown it,” Ouahbi stated, emphasizing the respect earned through their performance.
Ouahbi highlighted the motivation drawn from the support of Moroccans both at the stadium and at home. “This team, and all the Moroccan youth teams, are fighting for much, much more than just football or simply winning a match,” he said. He noted the dedication of the Moroccan fans, adding, “We played when it was two in the morning in Morocco and we’re certain that most people stayed awake.”
The coach, who transitioned from leading the Moroccan under-20 team to replace Walid Regragui, expressed belief in their ability to overcome Canada in the upcoming round of 16. However, he cautioned against complacency, stating, “Nobody can stop us if we play the football we know how to play. But nobody is unbeatable. If we get things wrong, we’ll go home.”
NAN reports that Morocco will face co-host Canada in the round of 16 on Saturday at the Houston Stadium, Texas.