U-17 World Cup: Morocco will approach Brazil with determination – Aloud

Morocco U-17 national team coach Ismail Aloud has revealed their plans to tackle Brazil when they face off in the Round of 16 of the on-going FIFA U-17 World Cup tournament in Qatar.

The North Africans and Burkina Faso are the only two African nations remaining at the tournament. Morocco reached the stage following a dramatic 3-2 win against Mali in the Round of 32 clash.

The Atlas Lions opened the scoring through Ziyad Baha, as the forward glanced in an inviting Moncef Zekri free-kick. Raymond Bomba would level matters from the spot late in the first half but parity lasted just five minutes, as another Zekri set-piece from the right was headed home by Ismail El Aoud.

Mali, who have reached the semi-finals in each of their previous three participations, fought to get back into the game after the break but were dealt a sucker punch when El Aoud flashed home his second from distance.

Captain Tiemoko Berthe brought the score within one with a thunderous effort from the edge of the box, but the Malians couldn’t find a leveller.

‘We know Brazil will be difficult opponent’

“I cannot control every detail of a match, but this team knows how to battle through the good and difficult moments,” said Aloud ahead of the Brazil game as quoted by Morocco World News. “I’m very happy with this victory and with qualifying for the quarter-finals.

“We know Brazil will be a difficult opponent. We will study them carefully, analyse their strengths and weaknesses, and approach the game with determination. We are Morocco. We fear no team, but we respect the one that performs best on the pitch.”

On the win over Mali, he said: “This victory gives us great motivation. In the next match, I will give my utmost to support the team, and God willing, success will be with us.”

Meanwhile, Morocco midfielder Moncef Zekri is looking forward to the Brazil after the win against Mali.

“Mali are a very tough team to face — they have physical strength and great intensity,” he said. “I’m extremely proud of my team and everything we’ve achieved.”

He added: “Facing Brazil is exciting. They’re a global football powerhouse, but we will give everything we have to win.”

The Atlas Cubs will face Brazil at Aspire Zone – Pitch 7 in Doha, Qatar on Friday.

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