Morocco no longer a surprise in football after World Cup 2026 quarter-final qualification
via SeneNews2 min read
Morocco's national football team is no longer considered a surprise among top football nations, according to coach Mohamed Ouahbi, following their 3-0 victory over Canada to qualify for the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup. The Atlas Lions previously reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and won the final of the last Africa Cup of Nations by forfeit against Senegal. Ouahbi stated that this achievement is just the beginning and expressed hope for continued success. He also mentioned that there is no desire for revenge against France, their 2022 World Cup opponent, emphasizing the goal is to advance as far as possible and make their nation proud. Despite a challenging first half, Morocco scored three goals in the second half, with two from Azzedine Ounahi. Ouahbi highlighted the team's resilience during difficult moments in the match. He also responded to Canadian coach Jesse Marsch's claim that Canada was "better" throughout the game, noting that it is difficult to make such a claim after a 3-0 loss. Azzedine Ounahi, who scored two goals, emphasized the team's collective effort and shared objective, expressing pride in the current generation of players.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Following Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup, Nicolas Jackson has directly addressed former international Paul Keita on Instagram, accusing him of spreading false information. Jackson, who had previously denied rumors of alcohol consumption, posted a strong message telling Keita to "stop lying." Jackson stated that Keita, a former player for the country, was spreading falsehoods about current players and advised him to focus on his own career. This direct confrontation marks a shift in tone for Jackson, who had earlier issued a general denial of alcohol use, emphasizing his respect for the national team and his teammates. He had also acknowledged fan disappointment but condemned the spread of false information damaging his reputation. Jackson's latest statement comes amid heightened tension and criticism directed at several national team players on social media after their World Cup elimination.
Nicolas Jackson, the Senegalese forward, has addressed and denied rumors circulating about his alcohol consumption following Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. In an Instagram post, Jackson firmly refuted the accusations, stating, "It's false. I don't drink alcohol, I never have. I love this jersey too much and I respect my teammates too much to behave as anything other than a professional." He emphasized his commitment and professionalism, despite the criticism directed at him after the team's early exit from the tournament. Jackson acknowledged the disappointment of supporters but stressed that frustration should not lead to the spread of false information. He concluded his message by affirming his dedication to his career, stating he will continue to work, recover, and return stronger.
Senegalese goalkeeper Mory Diaw has issued an apology to supporters following the elimination of the Lions of Teranga in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. In an emotional message, Diaw acknowledged his share of responsibility for the team's exit, stating, "I am sorry. Sorry for not being able to take you further." He reflected on his childhood dream of representing Senegal on the global stage and recognized the harsh reality of a goalkeeper's role, where a single action can alter a match's outcome. Despite the disappointment, Diaw emphasized that this elimination should not overshadow the team's efforts and sacrifices. He expressed that the pain will linger but affirmed his unwavering love for the national jersey, promising to return with greater determination. Diaw concluded by thanking Senegalese fans for their support through both victories and defeats, looking forward to future challenges with the Lions.