Mohamed Ouahbi has made his decision. For this highly anticipated quarter-final against France, the Moroccan coach has fielded a bold starting eleven, marked by several strong choices, particularly in defense. Morocco will start with Yassine Bounou in goal, behind a defensive line composed of Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Issa Diop, and Anass Salah-Eddine.
The most notable choice concerns the presence of Noussair Mazraoui in the center of defense. Usually deployed on one side, the Moroccan player has been repositioned to central defense for this match, alongside Issa Diop. This option confirms the coaching staff’s intention to rely on Mazraoui’s experience, game reading, and quality of distribution to counter the French offensive power. Another particularity: Morocco presents two left-back profiles in its eleven, with Mazraoui moved to the center and Anass Salah-Eddine starting on the left flank.
In midfield, Mohamed Ouahbi relies on a very technical trio with Ayyoub Bouaddi, Azzedine Ounahi, and Neil El Aynaoui. This sector will be one of the keys to the match, as France possesses physical and athletic arguments in this area. Morocco will need to assert itself in terms of impact, while also maintaining its quality in ball usage to avoid being pinned too deep.
Up front, Chemsdine Talbi is starting after impressing with each of his appearances in this competition. Every time he has come on as a substitute, the young Lion of the Atlas has been excellent, bringing dynamism, intensity, and a real ability to hurt in transitions. This time, he will have the opportunity to confirm his potential right from the kickoff, alongside Brahim Díaz and Bilal El Khannouss.
With this eleven, Morocco clearly displays its intentions: solidity, technical mastery, and players capable of quickly accelerating upon recovery. Facing a France team touted as the favorite, the Lions of the Atlas will need to deliver a complete match to continue their journey and seek a historic qualification.
