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Morocco’s under-20 national team coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, says his side are dreaming big ahead of the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, despite being drawn into a daunting group alongside Brazil, Mexico, and Spain.
In an interview with FIFA.com, Ouahbi was optimistic: “We have a clear playing identity, tactical discipline, and technical quality,” he said. “The boys showed real promise in the Africa Cup of Nations, even if the final loss to South Africa was painful.”
That defeat, he insists, has forged a mentally tougher team. “It hurt, but it made us stronger,” he added.
Ouahbi praised the growth of several players, notably Chamseddine Talbi and Adam Aznou, who are now training with the senior national team. But he was quick to temper expectations. “We mustn’t put pressure on them. Let them grow at their own pace.”
Preparation for the tournament has been meticulous. The squad is currently holding training camps in Morocco for home-based Botola players, before heading to Spain and Argentina for a series of friendlies. “It’s all about getting the group ready for the challenge in Chile,” said Ouahbi.
He ended with a call to Moroccan supporters: “Playing in a World Cup is an honour. It’s a chance to raise the national flag high and show what the future of Moroccan football looks like.”
The FIFA U20 World Cup, to be held in Chile this year, brings together the world’s top youth sides. Morocco will be making only their third appearance, having last qualified in 2005. The tournament, seen as a football fest for emerging talent, has previously launched the careers of global stars like Lionel Messi, Neymar, Vinicius Jr, and Paul Pogba.
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