Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has emphasized the need for patience with the national team's new players, stating that their integration into the squad is a gradual process that requires opportunities, development, and room for mistakes. In a press conference ahead of Tuesday's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Lesotho, Ouahbi highlighted that some newcomers have already received playing time, while others are still waiting for their chance. He stressed that each player will be given a chance at the appropriate moment.
Ouahbi's approach reflects his first senior Morocco squad, which included uncapped youngsters Abdellah Ouazane, Soufian El Faouzi, and Yassir Zabiri for the opening 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) described the selection as part of a move toward introducing more emerging players into the senior setup. This approach aims to provide opportunities for young players to develop and prove themselves within the national team.
Ouahbi also stressed that younger members of the squad should be allowed to make mistakes while adapting to senior international football. He believes that allowing them to make mistakes and learn from them is essential for their growth and development as players. This approach is expected to help the team build a strong foundation for the future.
The coach made it clear that continued selection will depend on performance. Players who show they deserve to remain with the national team will continue to receive opportunities, while others will need to work harder to earn their place. This performance-based approach will ensure that only the best players are selected for the team.
Morocco will face Lesotho on Tuesday, September 29, at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa. The match is part of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, and Morocco will be looking to build on their 2-0 victory over Gabon in Rabat on Friday. The win put Morocco top of Group A with three points and a +2 goal difference.
The team trained in Bloemfontein on Sunday, with the session focused on technical and tactical work. The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) reported that every player who traveled with the squad took part, except for Nayef Aguerd, who remained in Morocco to continue his return-to-competition program. The team is preparing to face Lesotho in a crucial qualifier.
Morocco's new players will have the opportunity to prove themselves in the upcoming match against Lesotho. With Ouahbi's patient approach, the team is expected to build a strong foundation for the future. The coach's focus on development and performance will be key to the team's success in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Key points
- Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi calls for patience with new players
- Ouahbi's approach focuses on development and performance
- Morocco faces Lesotho in a crucial 2027 AFCON qualifier
