France coach Didier Deschamps believes Morocco’s rise on the international stage is far from over, insisting the Atlas Lions possess the quality, youth and experience to enjoy an even brighter future despite their FIFA World Cup quarter final exit.
Deschamps made the remarks after his side defeated Morocco 2-0 to book a place in a third consecutive World Cup semi final, ending the North Africans’ hopes of another historic run but offering a glowing assessment of the progress they have made in recent years.
“I have a lot of respect for this team from Morocco,” Deschamps said after the match.
The France manager pointed to Morocco’s consistency on the biggest stages, highlighting their remarkable trajectory since reaching the World Cup semi finals in Qatar before emerging as finalists at the Africa Cup of Nations.
“They’ve already made it to the semi finals in Doha. They’re finalists of the Africa Cup. Today they’re in the quarterfinals,” he said.
Those achievements are evidence that Morocco’s emergence is no longer a surprise but the result of sustained development.
READMORE: Ouahbi: Morocco came to win the World Cup, not just make up the numbers
While admitting he was intrigued by some of Mohamed Ouahbi’s tactical decisions, particularly the starting line-up, the French coach was quick to praise the overall quality of the squad.
“They have very good players,” he said.
Deschamps believes Morocco’s greatest strength lies in the age profile of the team, noting that many of the players are only beginning their international careers and should improve further with experience.
“It’s a young team,” he said.
“There are a lot of players with 10 or 15 international caps. Except for Achraf Hakimi, who has more than 100.”
That combination of youthful talent and established leaders convinced the veteran coach that Morocco’s current generation still has significant room for growth.
“It makes you think that Morocco will have a bright future,” Deschamps added.
The France boss also acknowledged Morocco’s growing ability to attract and integrate players developed abroad, describing it as part of the country’s wider football evolution.
“They’re looking for a lot of French players,” he noted, adding that such recruitment has become common among several national teams.
Although France ultimately controlled the contest and limited Morocco’s attacking opportunities, Deschamps maintained that defeating the Atlas Lions required maximum concentration against an opponent he regarded as one of the tournament’s strongest sides.
“We’re in the quarterfinals with a good team from Morocco,” he said.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
The defeat brought an end to another memorable World Cup campaign, but Deschamps believes it should not overshadow the foundations the team has laid for the future.
