Morocco are through to the World Cup Round of 16 after beating the Netherlands 3.2 on penalties following a 1.1 draw. After the match, both coaches gave very different views on how the game unfolded.
Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his team deserved to go through after controlling the match. He said he did not expect the Netherlands to defend so deep. “We completely dominated a Netherlands team. We had 70 per cent possession, more shots and more expected goals. We controlled the match. We wanted to stay calm, play our game and believe that if it went to penalties we had an exceptional goalkeeper. We didn’t turn the match into a chaotic battle. We controlled it.”
Ouahbi said the Dutch tactical approach surprised him. “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. Seeing the Netherlands defend deep against us is a sign of respect.”
He said Morocco’s coaching staff helped the team change its approach after halftime. “We were surprised to see the Netherlands play with so many defenders. We expected them to sit deep, so we had to adapt. At first, we did not know how they would play when they had the ball. After the first half, thanks to my coaching staff’s analysis, we found the right solution. I want to thank my staff.”
Ouahbi also praised his players and said he trusts the younger members of the squad. “We played well, and I trusted my players. When I make substitutions, it is to make the team stronger. I have confidence in everyone. I am happy with the players’ effort and commitment. The young players deserve their chance. Players born in 2005, like Gessime, Mourabit, and Talbi, made a big difference.”
He said the team’s confidence has grown in recent years. “For the past few years, Moroccan players believe in themselves and the supporters believe in us as well.”
Ouahbi said the support from fans back home gives the team extra motivation. “Morocco has gained everybody’s respect now. It’s not because of what we’ve said. We’ve now shown it. This team, and all the Moroccan youth teams, are fighting for much, much more than just football or simply winning a match. 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.”
Looking ahead to the last 16 tie against Canada, he said: “Nobody can stop us if we play the football we know how to play. But nobody is unbeatable. If we get things wrong, we’ll go home.”
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said he will take time to think about his future after the defeat. “No, I haven’t. I’m going to reflect on my future. This is straight after a game and the disappointment is so fresh in your mind. I’m going to reflect on it and maybe I’ll come to a conclusion by tomorrow morning.”
Koeman defended his decision to play with five defenders despite criticism. “You can think whatever you like but we gave away much less against a team that was stronger than Sweden and Tunisia. If I had to do it again I’d do it all the same way. As the Dutch coach when the equaliser is scored I am always going to be scolded for the fact I chose five defenders. But you criticise, which is your right. You watch from the sidelines, I’m here with the team and, once again, I’d do it again.”
He admitted the tactical change made it harder for his side to attack. “We chose a different defensive system and were less effective in attack. We needed to be more dangerous down the left flank, but we failed to do that, and we also struggled on the right.”
Koeman insisted he would not change his approach if given another chance. “We allowed much fewer chances against an opponent that’s stronger than both Sweden and Tunisia. If the match were played again, I would use the same lineup and play the same way.”
