Wahbi: Morocco committed to its identity against France in World Cup quarterfinal | Morocco World News

Morocco's national football team coach, Mohamed Wahbi, affirmed that the Atlas Lions will confront France in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals on Thursday, maintaining their distinctive identity and style of play. Their objective remains to progress further in the tournament.

Wahbi expressed the team's considerable confidence heading into the match against France. "We respect the French team, but we are fully focused on ourselves and our way of playing," he stated during a pre-match press conference. He stressed that the Moroccan squad would not abandon the tactical principles that have led to their success thus far.

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We respect the French team, but we are fully focused on ourselves and our way of playing

The coach clarified that the team is not motivated by "sporting revenge" but by the desire to "continue writing history." He added, "Regardless of the opponent's identity, our goal is to go as far as possible in this competition."

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Regardless of the opponent's identity, our goal is to go as far as possible in this competition

Wahbi also pointed to the significant progress of Moroccan football on the international stage in recent years, asserting that Morocco is now a "true competitor and a global football power." He conveyed his squad's ambition to sustain this momentum and contend for the championship.

He further noted that World Cup matches are decided not only by technical and physical prowess but also by mental readiness and emotional control under pressure. Maintaining cohesion and belief in collective abilities throughout the game is crucial. All players are available except for Ismail Saibari, who is sidelined due to injury, but Wahbi expressed full confidence in the group's ability to overcome this absence and meet the challenge.

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Morocco has become a true competitor and a global football power