Netherlands’ center-back Virgil van Dijk stated on Sunday in Monterrey that he expects “a tough match against a Moroccan side possessing great qualities.”
Responding to a question from MAP during the pre-match press conference ahead of the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash, Van Dijk highlighted that the Moroccan squad “currently boasts one of the best right-backs in world football, Achraf Hakimi.”
He added that the Moroccan national team can also rely on forward Ismaël Saibari, who has had a remarkable season, as well as an experienced goalkeeper, a high-quality coach, and talented players such as Brahim Díaz. The Liverpool captain also singled out Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Van Dijk further affirmed that the Dutch team has prepared with the utmost seriousness for this showdown against the Atlas Lions, noting that the coaching staff has conducted a thorough analysis of the Moroccan team’s style of play.
He remarked that this match holds “special significance due to the close ties between the Netherlands and Morocco,” while noting that it is a knockout game where “there are only two outcomes: victory or elimination. We will give it our all.”
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.