Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed both pride and frustration after the Atlas Lions’ 1-1 draw against Brazil in their opening Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting his side had what it took to secure all three points.
Speaking after the match at the New York New Jersey Stadium, Ouahbi praised his players for their performance against one of football’s traditional powerhouses while admitting that Morocco left the pitch feeling it could have achieved more.
“It was a good game. We played well. We will be better in the next match,” the coach said, reflecting on a contest in which the Atlas Lions matched Brazil for long periods and demonstrated impressive tactical discipline.
Ouahbi highlighted the challenge posed by the South American giants, describing Brazil as a physically powerful team that thrives on direct attacking play and constant pressure inside the penalty area. Despite that threat, he felt Morocco successfully imposed its rhythm and created enough opportunities to dream of victory.
“We found depth, we controlled the tempo, but we need to learn how to finish matches the way we start them,” he noted.
The Moroccan coach emphasized that the draw was not viewed as a disappointment within the squad, but rather as evidence of the team’s growing ambitions on the international stage.
“I’m proud of the players. Even in the dressing room there was no euphoria because they knew there was more to achieve,” he said.
Among the standout performers, Ouahbi singled out young midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, whose mature display against Brazil drew widespread praise. The coach said he was not surprised by the teenager’s impact, citing his exceptional qualities and growing influence in the national team setup.
He also commended Neil El Aynaoui for delivering what he described as a high-level performance in a midfield unit that combines youthful energy with valuable experience.
On the fitness front, Ouahbi reassured supporters regarding goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, confirming that the shot-stopper suffered only a minor shoulder knock and remains available for the team’s upcoming fixtures.
The coach also praised the atmosphere generated by both sets of supporters, describing the match as a celebration of football fueled by the passion of Moroccan and Brazilian fans alike.
Morocco opened the scoring through Ismael Saibari in the 21st minute before Vinícius Júnior equalized for Brazil eleven minutes later. The result earned both teams their first point of the tournament.
Attention now turns to Morocco’s next Group C encounter against Scotland National Football Team on June 19, a fixture that could prove crucial in the battle for qualification to the knockout rounds. Brazil, meanwhile, will face Haiti National Football Team as both teams seek their first victory of the World Cup.
