Morocco Coach Halilhodzic Prepares for Key Friendlies Against African Powerhouses

The national coach held a press conference on the pitch of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, during which he stated that these two friendly matches are of paramount importance for the national team against teams like Senegal, which he considers "the best team in Africa".

Regarding the choice of certain players for these two matches, the coach responded that they were selected after several months of observation and discussions with the players concerned, who have greatly expressed a strong desire to join the national team. "I want to create a challenge between the players, and especially put pressure on the starters," he added. As for the situation of the summoned but ultimately absent players, Vahid Halilhodzic stated that it is very complicated, due to the large number of absences that have quite disrupted the preparation of the national team.

During his press conference, he also spoke about the case of Moroccan internationals blocked by certain clubs. He explained that they should not prevent players from coming to defend the colors of their country. He also mentioned the case of Hakim Zyech who could have been part of the team if he had not been injured. "We need him more in November than now," he explained, as if to end the controversy over the non-selection of the Chelsea player.

Some players such as Romain Saïss, Yassine Bounou, also spoke about their return to the national team after several months of absence. Romain Saïss indicated that "two preparation matches are sufficient to prepare for the next deadlines given the current health situation, which all teams are suffering from equally".As for Yassine Bounou, he expressed his joy at playing these two matches in a friendly atmosphere and a good state of mind.