Mohamed Ouahbi has thrown his full support behind Brahim Diaz ahead of Morocco's highly anticipated Round of 32 showdown with the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, the Atlas Lions coach praised Diaz's contributions throughout the group stage and expressed confidence that the Moroccan playmaker is ready for another influential performance on football's biggest stage.
Confidence Built on Quality
Sample placement
Ouahbi highlighted Diaz's impact during Morocco's opening three matches, pointing to the decisive assists that helped the Atlas Lions collect valuable points.
"He provided two assists that led to crucial goals at important moments," Ouahbi said. "Those contributions helped us earn valuable points against Brazil and Scotland."
The coach believes those moments underline the creative influence Diaz brings to Morocco's attack.
A Team Effort Above All
Responding to questions about Diaz's consistency over the full 90 minutes, Ouahbi refused to single out any individual player.
Instead, he emphasized that maintaining a high level throughout matches is a collective objective shared by the entire squad.
"Consistency applies to everyone," he explained. "I won't focus on one player. I focus on the whole team."
For Ouahbi, Morocco's strength lies in its unity, with every player contributing to the team's progress throughout the tournament.
Growing Stronger With Every Match
The Morocco coach also believes his squad is continuing to evolve as the World Cup progresses.
He praised the quality displayed across the team while acknowledging there is still room for further improvement as the knockout stage begins.
"We have many players who have shown great quality," Ouahbi said. "We need to become even more consistent, and the players know that. As the tournament goes on, we will continue to gain confidence and stability."
That steady growth has been one of the defining features of Morocco's campaign so far.
Belief Ahead of the Big Occasion
Ouahbi reserved his strongest words of encouragement for Diaz as attention turns to the meeting with the Netherlands.
The Morocco coach is convinced the occasion will bring out the very best in the Real Madrid forward.
"You will see that he will play a very big match tomorrow, God willing," Ouahbi said. "These are exactly the kinds of games that allow great players to show their true quality."
Eyes on the Quarterfinals
Morocco will face the Netherlands in Monterrey with a place in the Round of 16 on the line, where the winner will meet Canada.
After an unbeaten group-stage campaign featuring a draw against Brazil and victories over Scotland and Haiti, the Atlas Lions enter the knockout rounds full of confidence and ambition.
With Ouahbi placing his faith in one of Morocco's brightest stars, supporters will be hoping Diaz can help lead the Atlas Lions one step closer to another unforgettable chapter in their World Cup journey.