Ouahbi dismisses knockout speculation, eyes first place finish for Morocco

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his side is fully focused on defeating Haiti and securing first place in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, dismissing any talk of potential knockout-stage opponents ahead of the team’s final group match.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Ouahbi stressed that Morocco’s sole objective is victory, despite entering the encounter as favorites following a strong start to the tournament.

“As I said before, the objective is to win the match, and therefore to field the best possible team,” Ouahbi said. “That will depend on certain factors. Some players are physically in very good condition, and we could start with the same lineup without any problem. The players themselves are not yet aware of the final decision.”

Morocco enters the final round of Group C matches with four points after drawing 1-1 with Brazil and defeating Scotland 1-0. The Atlas Lions are level on points with Brazil but trail the five-time world champions on goal difference.

Victory over Haiti would guarantee Morocco a strong chance of finishing atop the group, depending on the outcome of Brazil’s match against Scotland.

Despite Haiti’s elimination hopes being slim, Ouahbi warned against underestimating the Caribbean side.

“This is a World Cup match,” he said. “Haiti will be motivated. They will want to score their first goal and earn their first point. We want to win and finish first. If we start thinking about anything other than victory, we may regret it.”

Ouahbi also highlighted the versatility and growing influence of playmaker Bilal El Khannouss and attacking midfielder Brahim Diaz, particularly the latter’s contribution to Morocco’s offensive structure.

“We have many players capable of operating as a number 10,” he said. “Brahim can play anywhere. He can also play behind the striker. He has already provided two assists and is very important to our attacking organization.”

The coach acknowledged that Morocco has occasionally lacked efficiency in front of goal but expressed confidence that the team’s finishing would improve as the tournament progresses.

“Offensively, we are capable of creating many chances, even if at times we need to score more goals,” Ouahbi said. “We will grow and become more efficient, you will see. I am convinced of that.”

“There are missed opportunities, as there always have been in football,” he added. “We are not worried because everyone is working to improve.”

Morocco’s impressive performances have already sparked discussion about possible Round of 32 opponents, including the Netherlands. However, Ouahbi dismissed speculation about future matchups.

“Everyone talks about the Netherlands, but have you seen Japan?” he said. “There will be very strong teams regardless of who we face. Brazil allowed us to measure ourselves against one of the best teams in the world, and we showed that we are capable of competing at that level. I am not focused on any particular opponent.”

The coach also pointed to the team’s improving physical condition since the start of the tournament.

“In the first match, the intensity was so high that we had to make substitutions relatively early,” he said. “Against Scotland, the players felt good, and we ran more and with greater intensity. Our goal is to maintain that level for at least 80 minutes.”

Ouahbi used the occasion to dismiss rumors regarding goalkeeper Yassine Bounou’s fitness, insisting that the veteran shot-stopper is fully available.

“He is absolutely not injured,” Ouahbi said. “I do not know where that information came from. As journalists, you have to verify your sources and not believe everything that circulates on social media.”

Finishing first in Group C would also allow Morocco to return to its base camp in New Jersey for the next stage of the tournament, a logistical advantage Ouahbi acknowledged without dwelling on it.

“I want to beat Haiti and finish ahead of Brazil,” he said. “That is our priority. After that, we will see what the future brings.”

Morocco and Haiti will meet Wednesday in the final Group C matchday, while Brazil faces Scotland simultaneously to determine the final group standings.