Morocco defender Ali Maamar expressed satisfaction after making his first start for the senior national team in a 2-0 victory over Gabon. The 21-year-old Anderlecht right-back filled in on the right side of defense with captain Achraf Hakimi suspended. The win was secured through goals from Noussair Mazraoui in the 36th minute and Soufiane Rahimi in the 84th. This victory gave Morocco a winning start to their Group A campaign.
Maamar emphasized that the result was more important than his individual milestone. He stated that it was crucial for Morocco to win against Gabon and start the qualifiers well at home. Maamar's goal is to continue developing, gain more experience, and play alongside new players. The defender also highlighted the importance of returning to competitive action with a positive result following Morocco's participation in the 2026 World Cup.
The win was significant for Morocco as it marked a positive return to competitive action after the 2026 World Cup. Maamar said that these matches are important and that it was essential to return with a positive feeling and get the win. He also expressed happiness in seeing the fans again and taking positive things into the next match. Morocco will next face Lesotho in Bloemfontein, South Africa, on September 29 in their second AFCON 2027 qualifier.
While Friday's match marked Maamar's first senior start for Morocco, he had already made his senior international debut on June 2. During that match, he came off the bench for 20 minutes in a 4-0 friendly victory over Madagascar. Maamar preferred to review the match before making a detailed assessment of his performance. He mentioned that there are points that need improvement and that he will analyze his performance after the match.
Maamar has established himself as a regular with Belgian side Anderlecht this season. He has started all seven of the club's league matches so far and registered two assists. The defender hopes to continue his good form and contribute to Morocco's success in the future. Maamar's performance in the match against Gabon was a positive step in his development as a player.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers are an essential part of Morocco's football calendar. The team's coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, will be looking to build on this positive start in the qualifiers. With a win in their opening match, Morocco is in a good position to advance to the next stage of the competition. The team's fans will be eagerly anticipating their next match against Lesotho.
Maamar's satisfaction with his first start for Morocco is a positive sign for the team. He will be looking to continue his development and contribute to the team's success in the future. With a winning start to the qualifiers, Morocco is in a good position to achieve their goals in the competition. The team's next match against Lesotho will be an essential test of their abilities.
Key points
- Morocco defender Ali Maamar made his first start for the senior national team in a 2-0 victory over Gabon.
- The win was secured through goals from Noussair Mazraoui in the 36th minute and Soufiane Rahimi in the 84th.
- Maamar emphasized that the result was more important than his individual milestone.
