Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi credited a halftime tactical adjustment and his players’ composure for the 3-0 victory over Canada that sent the Atlas Lions into the World Cup quarterfinals.
Canada’s aggressive high press unsettled Morocco during the opening stages and allowed the co-hosts to create several chances before the break.
Ouahbi said his staff had expected a difficult contest and praised the players for remaining patient while the team struggled to play through the pressure.
Morocco changed its build-up after halftime, moving the ball more frequently through central areas rather than attempting to advance along the flanks, where Canada had concentrated its press.
Ouahbi said the players carried out the instructions effectively, allowing Morocco to move the ball forward more cleanly and gain control of the match.
Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring five minutes after the restart and added a second in the 82nd minute. Soufiane Rahimi completed the win in stoppage time.
Ouahbi said the performance reflected tactical discipline and an ability to adapt rather than chance.
Morocco will now focus on recovering before its quarterfinal against the winner of France and Paraguay.
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