Rabat – Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has clapped his team’s performance following their convincing 5-1 victory over Niger in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, highlighting the squad’s ability to maintain its playing style despite several injury-related absences.

Speaking after Friday’s encounter, Ouahbi said the Atlas Lions managed to combine a positive result with an encouraging collective performance, stressing that the coaching staff wanted more than just three points.

The match also provided an opportunity to assess the squad’s depth, introduce new faces, and evaluate the team’s ability to break down opponents that rely on defensive organization.

Ouahbi explained that maintaining Morocco’s playing identity remained a priority despite the players unavailable for selection. He pointed to the team’s attacking efficiency, collective movement, and ability to impose its rhythm as important aspects of the performance.

The coach also discussed the tactical approach adopted against Niger, particularly the use of high pressing and numerical superiority in attacking areas.

He stressed that facing teams that defend deep requires sustained pressure, quick transitions between defence and attack, and the ability to prevent opponents from reorganizing their defensive lines.

According to Ouahbi, Morocco successfully applied these principles, allowing the team to control the encounter and maintain its attacking intensity throughout the match.

Morocco’s new generation

Beyond the result, the Moroccan coach welcomed the opportunity to give new players minutes and assess their potential alongside more experienced international figures.

He emphasized the importance of combining emerging talents with established players such as Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, and Youssef En-Nesyri, who returned to the national team setup.

Ouahbi believes this combination provides Morocco with different options as the coaching staff continues to develop the squad and strengthen its understanding on the pitch.

The coach also singled out Ayoub Oufkir, who marked his international debut by finding the net against Niger.

Ouahbi expressed satisfaction with the young forward’s contribution, describing him as a good player who deserved his place in the national team.

He added that scoring on his first appearance represents an encouraging start for Oufkir and could help boost his confidence as he looks to establish himself with the Atlas Lions.

The coach’s comments reflect Morocco’s ongoing efforts to integrate emerging players while retaining the experience needed to compete at the highest international level.

Morocco’s 5-1 victory

Morocco delivered an attacking display against Niger, with Yassir Zabiri opening the scoring early in the encounter.

Captain Achraf Hakimi then took center stage, scoring twice to extend the Atlas Lions’ advantage.

Morocco continued their dominance after the break, adding two more goals to complete a 5-1 victory and strengthen their position in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.

Oufkir’s debut goal also provided one of the evening’s highlights, giving the young forward an impressive introduction to international football.

Ouahbi applauded the team’s ability to maintain its intensity in the second half, considering it evidence of the group’s growing development and competitive mentality.

He also pointed to the result as a demonstration of Morocco’s strength at home, where the team managed to impose its style and put the opposition under sustained pressure.

Potential changes

Looking ahead, Ouahbi said the technical staff would continue working to improve the team’s performances, insisting that the players must approach each match individually.

He did not rule out changes to the starting lineup in Morocco’s next fixture, explaining that all players who deserve to represent the national team remain candidates for selection.

The coach said the final decisions would be discussed with the squad and based on the demands of each encounter.

However, he made clear that Morocco’s immediate priority remains securing qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as early as possible.

With the victory over Niger, the Atlas Lions have strengthened their qualification campaign while giving their coaching staff another opportunity to assess the depth and potential of the current generation.