Wahbi: “The Players Have a Strong Sense of National Pride and a Deep Commitment to Morocco”
The Moroccan national team coach, Mohamed Wahbi, has expressed confidence in the player selections made for the upcoming friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay , emphasizing that the players called up are capable of making significant contributions in the medium term.
Strong National Spirit and Collective Commitment
During a press conference held at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in La Maamoura, Wahbi stated that discussions with the technical staff have been positive, highlighting that the team is driven by a “strong national spirit” and a “genuine attachment to Morocco.”
“I have seen a group eager to progress and ready to develop,” he added, expressing satisfaction with the players’ commitment as they approach the upcoming challenges.
Absences and Tactical Choices
The coach explained that some key players, such as Sofyan Amrabat, Othman Maâma, and Naïf Akard, are currently sidelined due to injuries but will soon rejoin the team.
Regarding the absence of strikers like Youssef En-Nesyri and Ilyas Akhomach, Wahbi clarified that these decisions are tactical, aimed at not calling up too many forwards. As for the top scorer of the national professional championship, Sofyan Benjdidia, his absence is linked to his performance level in a competitive environment. However, Wahbi insisted: “The door to the national team remains open if his current level continues.”
Preparation Program for the 2026 World Cup
Morocco will begin its friendly matches with the game against Ecuador on Friday, March 27 in Madrid (Spain), followed by a match against Paraguay on Tuesday, March 31 in Lens (France). These matches are part of the preparation for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where Morocco has been placed in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.
