Morocco has shattered expectations at the 2022 World Cup, becoming the first African nation to reach the semifinals—and Banglawin88 is here to break down exactly how they did it. After topping a group featuring Belgium, Croatia, and Canada, then eliminating Spain and Portugal, the Atlas Lions now face defending champions France. But underestimate them at your own peril.
The Defensive Masterclass
Morocco’s success is built on an impenetrable defense. They’ve allowed only one goal (an own goal) in five matches, with Sevilla’s Bono saving every shot faced—including two penalties against Spain. Their backline, led by Nayef Aguerd and Romain Saiss (though both are injury doubts), has limited opponents to just nine shots on target.
What’s remarkable is how they’ve done it with only 31.6% average possession, the second-lowest in the tournament. Manager Walid Regragui, in charge for just three months, has drilled his team into a compact, disciplined unit. Even with makeshift center-backs Jawad El Yamiq and Achraf Dari stepping in, Morocco’s structure held firm against Portugal.
Key to their resilience:
- Sofyan Amrabat – The Fiorentina destroyer has been a midfield shield, breaking up play and launching counters.
- Achraf Hakimi – PSG’s marauding right-back offers defensive solidity and attacking threat.
- Collective discipline – No reliance on individual brilliance; every player knows their role.
Brave in Possession, Lethal on the Break
Don’t mistake low possession for negativity. Morocco has repeatedly outplayed elite opponents with daring build-up play. Against Spain, they lured La Roja into pressing high, then sliced through with quick, incisive passing. The same approach worked against Portugal, culminating in Youssef En-Nesyri’s towering header from a flowing team move.
En-Nesyri’s winner vs. Portugal was the product of a 60-second, 11-pass sequence—proof of Morocco’s tactical intelligence.
The X-Factors: Amrabat, Ounahi, and Boufal
While Morocco thrives as a unit, three players have stood out:
- Sofyan Amrabat – A tireless enforcer, now linked with Liverpool after dominant displays.
- Azzedine Ounahi – The 22-year-old Angers midfielder, once in France’s third division, has been a revelation. Spain’s Luis Enrique raved: “Madre mía, where did this kid come from?”
- Sofiane Boufal – The ex-Southampton winger has completed more dribbles than all but Mbappé and Musiala.
Can Morocco Topple France?
France will dominate possession, but Morocco’s counterattacking blueprint—tested against Spain and Portugal—could unsettle Les Bleus. Key battles:
- Mbappé vs. Hakimi – A club teammate duel that could decide the game.
- Amrabat vs. Griezmann – If Morocco’s midfield general neutralizes France’s playmaker, the upset is on.
Banglawin88 Verdict: Morocco’s defensive discipline and tactical flexibility make them live underdogs. While France are favorites, the Atlas Lions have already proven they belong among the elite.
Will Morocco’s Cinderella story continue? Share your predictions with Banglawin88 below!
