After unveiling his list of players summoned, this Thursday, March 17, at a press conference, on the sidelines of the double confrontation against the Democratic Republic of Congo, Vahid Halilhodzic gave an update on the challenges of the national team, and wanted to put an end to the controversy surrounding Hakim Ziyech and Noussair Mazraoui.
Contrary to his habit, Vahid Halilhodzic was clear and precise in his remarks, focusing above all on the group of players summoned including the nugget of FC Barcelona, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, who represents an asset for the Moroccan selection, according to the words of the coach. .
“I spoke with him and he is a good boy with a lot of qualities. It’s a profile that we missed!“, said Vahid who said he was happy with his choice of players, a good group that showed what he was capable of in the qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup.
Aware of the challenge that awaits him after the elimination of Morocco in the quarter-finals of the African Cup of Nations, the Bosnian technician who will begin training on Monday with his group, said he was totally focused on the first confrontation which will place on March 25 in Kinshasa.
“In my head, I already have the organization of the match in Kinshasa and that of Casa. It is from that that I compose my group especially in attack. I have several profiles in the axis and a few on the corridor. Because I would play these games differently.he said, before adding:
“Cuper is a smart coach. He knows how to prepare for this kind of match. I have already seen several matches of the DRC . It will be a special match. We must try to erase their qualities and play on their faults. It’s a special preparation.”.
Vahid draws a line under Mazraoui and Ziyech
His response was eagerly awaited following the controversy between the two ex-Atlas Lions. Vahid Halilodzic will have to pass the obstacle of the Democratic Republic of Congo without Hakim Ziyech and Noussair Mazraoui who refused the call of their coach, as he explained at a press conference.
The two players trained at Ajax accused the former FC Nantes of “lies” and lack of communication”. If the FRMF defended itself, the coach had so far not responded.
The opportunity therefore presented itself for the coach to give his version of the facts. However, not wanting to fuel the controversy, the principal concerned simply confirmed the pre-selection of Ziyech and Mazraoui, wanting to draw a line under this affair and move forward with serenity with the players who agreed to respond.
“Ziyech and Mazraoui were on the list. They made the choice to refuse. We respect that choice. But now it’s over. I would never speak of them again. I focus on my squad and the players called up.”he said to put an end to a case that has caused a lot of ink to flow.
From now on, the one who made the heyday of the Algerian selection wipes the slate clean and turns to the present with a clear message to Moroccan players.
“Boys, I know their mentality. There are still players who refused to play for Morocco. Some have a lot of talent but how to discuss with players uprooted from the country and who have agents who prevent discussions?he concludes.
Vahid justifies his player choices
Each list has enough trouble. Asked about the presence of certain players and the absence of others like Adel Taarabt, the coach explained himself assuring once again that he had made the right choice of players.
“Adel Taarabt was in great shape. He was in the squad for the play-off matches. Unfortunately, he got injured at half time with Benfica against Ajax. He couldn’t hold his place. He was disappointed because he wantedhe justified, regarding the absence of the talent of Benfica.
At the same time, Vahid came to the defense of his player, Sofian Chakla, who was strongly criticized for his lack of club playing time and his recent performances in CAN 2021. “I know Chakla’s talent and he’s a strong player who can make the difference against our opponents”, he explained, also returning to the similar case Samy Mmae.
“Just because they don’t play for a club doesn’t mean they don’t deserve to be taken! Look at Belgium with Hazard, he does not play but he is captain and holder with the selection. It’s the same with me.”he says.
During this conference, the Bosnian coach wanted to send a message to the supporters. “I have a message to send to Moroccan supporters: stop criticizing and unite to support this magnificent nation! »did he declare.
In the event of Moroccan underperformance, the place of the coach would then be more than ever called into question. The coach is already in the crosshairs of Moroccan supporters who are demanding his dismissal. The stakes will therefore be high for Vahid and his men.
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