Mohamed Ouahbi after Morocco-Gabon: “The assessment is positive”

Mohamed Ouahbi expressed his satisfaction after Morocco’s victory against Gabon (2-0) on Friday night in Rabat, marking the Lions of the Atlas’ debut in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. However, the Moroccan coach emphasized several areas for improvement, particularly offensive efficiency and his team’s ability to impose their game more effectively.

“I think the assessment is positive. We won in the way we wanted and we controlled the match,” the Moroccan coach explained after the game. Ouahbi did acknowledge a less controlled phase during which Gabon managed to pose a threat, while believing that the Lions had opportunities to score more goals.

The coach was particularly demanding regarding finishing. For him, Moroccan players need to be sharper when they find themselves in favorable positions. “A player who has had two chances and missed them cannot leave the match feeling happy. He should not be satisfied with himself,” he stated, thus showing his desire to push his team to become more effective.

Ouahbi also praised the entry of Abdellah Ouazane, who was brought on in the second half. “Ouazane came on at a time when we were not performing well, but he showed his personality. When he is under pressure, it does not affect him. He is an extremely talented player,” the coach highlighted, even presenting the young Moroccan as one of the players representing the future of national football.

The coach also reflected on his offensive choices. The starting position of Yassir Zabiri was justified by his good form at the club and his physical condition. As for Soufiane Rahimi, who came on during the match and scored Morocco’s second goal in the 84th minute, Ouahbi praised his contribution and the energy he brought immediately upon entering the field.

With this success, Morocco begins its qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with three points, but Mohamed Ouahbi’s remarks already indicate the guiding principle set for the future: to win while continuing to raise the level of demand.