DR ‹ › National team coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed confidence on Thursday in his squad selection for the upcoming friendlies against Ecuador and Paraguay, saying the players called up are «capable of making a significant contribution in the medium term». «I am satisfied with the mindset shown by the selected players ahead of the upcoming fixtures», Ouahbi said during a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, where he unveiled the squad for the two matches scheduled for late March. «The discussions with the team's senior players have been very positive», he added, highlighting «a strong sense of patriotism» and «a real attachment to Morocco» within the group. The national coach also stressed the squad's collective ambition to improve. «I saw a group that wants to move forward and is ready to evolve», he said. Addressing some notable absences, Ouahbi clarified that key players Sofyan Amrabat and Nayef Aguerd are currently unavailable due to injury, but are expected to return soon. Youssef En-Nesyri's absence, however, is a technical decision. «I didn't want to call up too many strikers», he explained. The same applies to Ilias Akhomach, whose omission, despite a minor injury, is primarily based on tactical considerations. Ouahbi also commented on Soufiane Benjdida, striker for MAS Fez and current top scorer in the Botola Pro D1 «Inwi». He noted that he is familiar with the player, but his absence is due to profile considerations amid strong competition, while leaving the door open for a future call-up if his performances continue. The Atlas Lions will face Ecuador in Madrid on March 27 and Paraguay in Lens on March 31, as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Morocco has been drawn in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.
