Mohamed Ouahbi gave a positive assessment of the Atlas Lions’ campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite Morocco’s 2-0 quarter-final defeat to France. The Morocco head coach believes that this campaign has laid the foundations for a promising future for Moroccan football.
During his press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Ouahbi first thanked King Mohammed VI, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, his coaching staff, the players, and the supporters for their support throughout the tournament. The Moroccan coach also congratulated France on its victory, acknowledging the superiority of Les Bleus and taking full responsibility for Morocco’s elimination. However, he pointed out that the Atlas Lions had enjoyed a remarkable campaign, producing five convincing performances in six matches.
Looking back on the quarter-final, Ouahbi insisted that his team had not changed its playing philosophy. According to him, the main issue was a lack of efficiency in the final third rather than a tactical problem. The head coach also refused to use injuries or fatigue as excuses. « Those are excuses. I want to keep moving forward, » he said, arguing that this level of ambition is essential if Morocco is to continue its progress.
Finally, Mohamed Ouahbi expressed great optimism about the future. He emphasized that Morocco had one of the youngest squads in the tournament and that the experience gained would be invaluable for the challenges ahead.
« The future of Moroccan football is bright, » the head coach concluded, convinced that the Atlas Lions will continue to grow in the years to come.
