Morocco midfielder Brahim Diaz believes the Atlas Lions have everything they need to eliminate France when the two sides meet in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup quarter-final.
As Africa’s only remaining representative at the tournament, Morocco carry the hopes of an entire continent. Having become the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final in 2022, the Atlas Lions have already shown they can compete with — and defeat — the world’s elite on football’s biggest stage. Diaz believes that experience will serve them well once again.
“We have experience too. We’ve already played in big games, so we know what to expect,” Diaz said ahead of the encounter.
“Of course, it will be a match that demands experience, but I trust my team. If you look at our line-up, the players coming off the bench, the coaching staff, and the manager, you’ll see we have more than enough experience. Now it’s about showing tomorrow that we have what it takes to win.”
Morocco have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, displaying tactical discipline, resilience and composure under pressure. Their run to the quarter-finals has once again underlined their ability to compete with the world’s best, while their historic semi-final appearance in Qatar four years ago remains proof that they belong among football’s elite.
However, France will be anything but easy opponents. Les Bleus arrive as 2018 FIFA World Cup champions and runners-up in 2022, with a squad packed with world-class talent and players accustomed to the pressure of major international tournaments. Their pedigree and winning mentality make them one of the favourites to lift the trophy once again.
Despite France’s credentials, Morocco are embracing the challenge rather than fearing it. Diaz believes the Atlas Lions possess the quality, depth and experience required to cause another major upset.
For the Real Madrid star, belief alone will not be enough.
“We have enough experience,” he said. “Now we have to show it by winning.”
With a place in the semi-finals at stake, Morocco will look to keep Africa’s World Cup dream alive, while France will be determined to prove why they remain one of the global game’s most formidable forces.
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
