🇲🇦MoroccoNorth Africa
Morocco's Atlas Lions learn lessons from final World Cup 2026 test against Norway
via Le Matin2 min read
The Atlas Lions' final test against Norway before the World Cup 2026 group stage provided valuable insights for Mohamed Ouahbi. Despite injuries to Noussair Mazraoui and Abde Ezzalzouli, the technical staff used the match to refine their preparations. In the first half, Morocco, playing in a 4-2-3-1 system, demonstrated strong technical control, with Azzedine Ounahi and Ismael Saibari effectively breaking through Norway's lines. Brahim Díaz scored in the 7th minute, reflecting their aggressive space occupation and ball control. However, defensive transition issues emerged, with the Moroccan block lacking compactness against Norway's physical play and verticality, leaving gaps between the midfield and defense. The injuries to Mazraoui and Ezzalzouli before halftime also disrupted the initial plan, leading to numerous changes in the second half. This lack of continuity and a gradual drop in intensity prevented a victory that seemed within reach, highlighting the need for sustained concentration at the highest level. These lessons are crucial as the World Cup approaches. Ouahbi must instill collective discipline, as individual talent alone is insufficient without a solid defensive foundation. Tactical adjustments will focus on strengthening the defensive block during opponent pressing. The second-half substitutions also underscored the need to harmonize the performance level of the bench to maintain a consistent playing identity. Ouahbi acknowledged that this athletic opposition
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Matin.
Must ReadUS President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Iran and Israel desire an immediate ceasefire, with final peace negotiations underway. He noted that the blockade will remain fully in effect until a definitive agreement is reached, expecting rapid developments. Since February 28, Iran has blockaded the Strait of Hormuz in response to an Israeli-American offensive, impacting global hydrocarbon transit. In retaliation, the United States imposed a blockade on Iranian ports in April, diverting numerous ships. These developments follow a ceasefire that has been in effect since April 8, with diplomatic discussions continuing to solidify the truce and achieve a lasting agreement.
Must ReadIran has announced the cessation of its military operation against Israel, stating it delivered a "severe response" following Israel's bombing of Beirut's southern suburbs. The Iranian armed forces warned that "far more severe and repressive actions" would be taken if aggression and hostilities continue, including in southern Lebanon. This comes after Iran reportedly fired approximately 30 missiles at Israel since Sunday evening, in retaliation for an Israeli strike on the southern suburbs of Beirut, a stronghold of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah, which resulted in two deaths and 20 injuries. Pakistan's Prime Minister, a mediator between the United States and Iran, highlighted the risks of a fragile ceasefire and its potential disastrous consequences, urging all parties to exercise restraint and give peace another chance.
The Morocco national team, led by Mohamed Ouahbi, is grappling with several injury concerns as they prepare for their upcoming match against Brazil. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, a key winger for the Atlas Lions, is a major worry after sustaining a right leg injury during a match against Norway. Initial examinations, according to "Foot Mercato," suggest a sprained internal knee ligament, potentially sidelining him for three to four weeks. This timeframe could rule him out of the World Cup, a significant blow given his recent strong performances in Morocco's offense. Noussair Mazraoui also left the Norway match due to a shoulder impact, but Mohamed Ouahbi stated in a press conference that it is a contusion and no serious injury was detected, making him likely available for the Brazil game. Additionally, Nayef Aguerd and Chamseddine Talbi are continuing their recovery protocols from previous injuries, with Aguerd recently rejoining collective training. Anass Salah-Eddine's absence from the Norway match lineup, after playing against Madagascar, has raised questions, though no official communication has confirmed a serious injury. With the Brazil match scheduled for June 13, the coming days are crucial for the Moroccan technical staff to assess the fitness of these players. Speculation about potential reinforcements from the extended squad, including Sofiane Boufal and Maamma, is circulating in case of confirmed withdrawals.