Ouahbi after the 3-0 win over Canada: "This team deserves every bit of respect"
At the post-match press conference following Morocco's 3-0 elimination of Canada, coach Ouahbi spoke about the collective performance, Bounou's brilliance and what awaits in the quarter-finals.
With a smile he couldn't hide and words full of pride, coach Ouahbi sat down with the press after Morocco's commanding 3-0 win over Canada in the 2026 World Cup round of 16, breaking down a victory that was complete in every sense.
"The team is the hero"
"What you saw today is the result of long collective work. There is no individual hero in this team — every player performs his role with total dedication, and that is the real secret. I am proud of all of them."
Special words for Bounou
"Bounou doesn't need my praise. His numbers speak for themselves. Four saves and a clean sheet against a side that attacked with real intent and determination — that is world-class, and I'm not saying it to flatter him."
Tactical reading of the match
"Canada is a team that likes the ball and builds from the back. They had 55% possession, but we chose to be defensively disciplined and lethal on the counter-attack. That was the plan, and it worked."
Ouahbi highlighted the central role of Hakimi and Ounahi in Morocco's rapid transitions from defence to attack, noting that the tactical preparation had been extensive in the build-up to the match.
The quarter-final and France
"France is a big team and we respect them a great deal, but we fear no one. We reached the quarter-finals on merit and we will prepare with the same seriousness and focus. This team is capable of surprising everyone."
To the Moroccan supporters
"I want to thank every Moroccan following us from Morocco and from every corner of the world. Your support reaches us on the pitch — it is part of our energy. We play for you."
