Morocco can get out of Group F, but have weaknesses up front
MOROCCO have been drawn in a tough Group F alongside Belgium, Canada and Croatia, but they can still realistically aim to advance beyond the group stage of the World Cup.
Things will not be easy for Walid Regragui’s side, especially as every side in their group will feel that they have a chance to advance beyond the group stage.
Even Canada, who are playing in the World Cup for the first time since 1986, will feel that they can be a surprise package in Qatar.
If Regragui’s side want to progress beyond the group stage in Qatar, it is vital that they aim to record a victory over Canada, while also picking up a point at least against Belgium and Croatia. The team will be led by veteran Besiktas defender Romain
Saiss, and their star player is PSG defender Achraf Hakimi (23).
Hakimi is hailed as one of the best right backs in the world, and Regragui will need good displays from him if his side are to spring surprises in Qatar.
Up front, the Atlas Lions are boosted by the return of Chelsea attacker Hakim Ziyech, who has ended his international retirement under the new coach, following the end of Vahid Halilhodzic’s term at the helm of the national team.
Sevilla striker Youssef En-nesyri could well lead the line for the North Africans.
He has struggled to find the back of the net at club level over the past two seasons, but has scored three goals in 2022 internationally, so it will be hoped that the 25-year-old can deliver in Qatar.
It is up front where Morocco’s weaknesses lie, as they do not have a prolific player in that area.
Hakimi and Ziyech are well capable of crafting chances against any side, but problems could be faced if there is no clinical unit up front to convert the opportunities into goals. Given the large Moroccan diaspora in Qatar, Morocco’s fans will likely outnumber their opponents significantly when they take to the field.
On paper, they might struggle to get out of the group, but they will hope that the 12th man or woman (the fans) can give them that extra bit of energy needed to get over the line.