Pride and Passion: Coach Tarik Sektioui on Morocco’s U23 Squad
Atlas Lions Prepare for Semifinal Clash Against Spain
As Morocco’s U23 national team gears up to face Spain in the semifinals, the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille is set to reverberate with the cheers of 52,000 spectators, predominantly Moroccan supporters. This wave of enthusiasm underscores the deep connection between the Atlas Lions and their homeland, a sentiment vividly expressed by their coach, Tarik Sektioui.
In a recent interview with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s (FRMF) official channel, Sektioui shared his pride in the team’s groundbreaking achievements and his unwavering belief in their potential to extend their remarkable journey in the competition.
Sektioui attributed the burgeoning success of Moroccan football on the global stage to the visionary leadership of King Mohammed VI and the dedicated efforts of FRMF president Fouzi Lekjaa. “This gives us a greater thirst to do even better,” he remarked, highlighting the collective drive to elevate Moroccan football.
The coach’s admiration for his players was palpable as he described them not merely as athletes but as “men” who embody a profound love and dedication to Morocco. “I am honored to be present with these men. We have felt that they carry a great love for Morocco and for the Moroccan flag, and they feel responsible for developing Moroccan football,” Sektioui said.
As the team prepares for the formidable challenge posed by Spain, Sektioui acknowledged the well-matched nature of the contest. “We know Spain’s strengths and weaknesses very well, and they also know our strengths and weaknesses. At this point, there is no room for surprises; all the details of each team are known,” he noted.
The absence of midfielder Bilal El Khanouss, suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards, will be felt, but Sektioui remains confident, pointing to the seasoned experience of players like Achraf Hakimi, Munir Mohamedi, Ilias Akhomach, and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, many of whom honed their skills within the Spanish football system.
Spanish coach Santi Denia has also acknowledged Morocco’s impressive performance in the tournament, commending Sektioui’s leadership. Denia expressed respect for Akhomach’s decision to play for Morocco, having previously represented Spain at youth levels.
The semifinal showdown is expected to be a vibrant spectacle, with the majority of the crowd fervently supporting the North African team. Uzbek official Ilgiz Tantashev will oversee the match, adding an international flavor to the officiating.
Morocco’s journey in the tournament has been marked by an impressive tally of 10 goals scored and only three conceded in four matches. Striker Soufiane Rahimi, a standout performer, leads the competition’s scoring charts with five goals, emerging as a significant threat to Spain’s defense.
The Moroccan squad, a blend of homegrown talent and players who have developed abroad in footballing hubs like Spain, Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, exemplifies the nation’s growing football prowess and aspirations on the international stage.
A victory against Spain would propel Morocco into the Olympic final, bringing them tantalizingly close to a historic gold medal. The Atlas Lions stand on the brink of a momentous achievement, driven by a deep-seated passion for their country and the beautiful game.