Morocco coach Mohamed Al-Wahbi says the team is no longer a weak opponent.

On the eve of the opening match of Group C in the upcoming World Cup, Morocco's head coach Mohamed Al-Wahbi stated at a press conference that the Moroccan team is eager to shed its past label as a "weaker team." They will face heavyweight opponents Brazil at the New Jersey Arena in New York.

Four years ago at the Qatar World Cup, Morocco eliminated Spain and Portugal, becoming the first African team in history to reach the semi-finals. Wahibi insists that Morocco is no longer a weak team, and with the country preparing to co-host the 2030 World Cup, the expectations and pressure on the team are even greater.

Wahibi, speaking through a translator, said: "Brazil is not afraid, and neither are we. We have entered a new dimension, earned more respect, and now Morocco's goal in the competition is to win the trophy."

Although Wahebi, who only took over as manager three months ago, had to face the absence of key players Naif Argyll and Abdusamad Ezarzuli due to injury, he confirmed that the rest of the team was in good physical condition.

In preparation for his match against his opponent, Wahibi revealed that he had read all of Carlo Ancelotti's books to understand his coaching philosophy.

Currently, the Moroccan team is led by the recovered Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi. The two teams met in a friendly in 2023, with Morocco emerging victorious. Despite Brazil's recent turbulent pre-season, Wahibi believes this will still be a closely contested match with no clear favorites.

Image source: Internet