Morocco: Morocco’s football national team coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, expressed on Saturday mixed feelings of satisfaction and regret following the draw against Brazil (1-1) in the Group C opener of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, while praising the Atlas Lions’ “strong performance.”

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Ouahbi shared his thoughts with the press after the match, acknowledging both the positives and areas for improvement. “It was a good game. We played well. We will be better in the next match,” he stated. The coach applauded his team’s ability to stand up to Brazil, a team known for its physicality and direct play.

Ouahbi noted the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the match, stating, “We found depth, we imposed our rhythm, but we need to learn to finish matches the way we start them.” Despite feeling that there was more to achieve, he expressed pride in his players’ attitudes: “I’m proud of them. It’s not a disappointment. Even in the locker room, they weren’t euphoric, because they
knew there was more to be done.”

The coach specifically highlighted the performance of young midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, expressing no surprise at his impressive showing, given his known qualities. He also praised midfielder Neil El Aynaoui for his “very high-level performance,” emphasizing the valuable mix of youth and experience he brings to the team.

Ouahbi addressed concerns about goalkeeper Yassine Bounou’s condition, reassuring that he only suffered “a minor shoulder knock, but he’s fine.” He also commended the lively atmosphere created by both Moroccan and Brazilian fans during the match.

The match saw Morocco take an early lead with Ismael Saibari’s goal in the 21st minute, only for Brazil’s Vinicius to equalize in the 32nd minute. As a result, both teams earned their first point in Group C, with upcoming matches against Scotland and Haiti, respectively. The Atlas Lions are set to face Scotland on June 19, while Brazil will meet Haiti on the second day of the group stage.