Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his players earned worldwide respect after beating the Netherlands on penalties on Monday and reaching the World Cup last 16, where they will meet co-hosts Canada.
Morocco won the shootout 3-2 after a 1-1 draw. Ismael Saibari struck the winning penalty after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou denied Crysencio Summerville from the spot.
“Morocco have gained everybody’s respect now,” Ouahbi said.
“It’s not because of what we’ve said. We’ve now shown it.”
Morocco stayed in the game after conceding and forced extra time through a late equaliser before keeping control in the shootout. Ouahbi also pointed to the support his side carried from home.
“This team, and all the Moroccan youth teams, are fighting for much, much more than just football or simply winning a match,” he said.
“They know that behind them there are millions and millions of people. We played when it was two in the morning in Morocco and we’re certain that most people stayed awake. That gives you the energy not to give up, to keep going and to believe in yourself.”
Ouahbi felt his side controlled large parts of the contest despite needing penalties to settle it.
“We completely dominated a Netherlands team.”
“We had 70% possession, more shots and more expected goals. We controlled the match.”
The Morocco coach also viewed the Dutch tactical setup as a sign of changing perceptions around his side.
“I really didn’t expect this kind of low block because the Netherlands like to have the ball and are very strong when they do.”
“I saw this type of play as a form of respect.”
Morocco reached the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar four years ago and Ouahbi believes that run changed attitudes inside the national setup.
“For the past few years, Moroccan players believe in themselves and the supporters believe in us as well.”
Morocco now switch focus to Canada, with Ouahbi expecting another difficult knockout test.
