France sees Morocco stronger than in 2022 and predicts a tough game in the quarterfinals

France expects an even greater challenge against Morocco in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup. In a press conference this Tuesday (7), striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, defender Dayot Upamecano and goalkeeper Robin Risser stated that the African team has evolved since the historic campaign in the 2022 World Cup.

Mateta was direct when comparing the two generations of the Moroccan team. "I think that today's Morocco is better, yes, much better. They have evolved a lot, they are the sixth team in the world rankings, and what they are doing now is impressive."

Upamecano highlighted the technical quality of the opponent and stated that France will need to be attentive in all sectors to advance to the semifinals.

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"They are a great team, sixth in the world rankings. They have evolved since 2022. They like to have the ball, play one-on-one and have scored a lot of goals. We will need to be attentive in defense and attack. We respect this team a lot, but we want to win to stay in the competition."

The defender also highlighted that the French know a good part of the Moroccan squad, made up of athletes who play for the main clubs in Europe.

Goalkeeper Robin Risser stated that Morocco has become a complete team, capable of controlling ball possession and exploiting counterattacks efficiently.

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"It's a team that has evolved a lot in recent years. It can play with the ball and make good transitions. We need to take this opponent very seriously, because we know it will be a very difficult game."

The teams will face each other again in a World Cup after the 2022 semi-final, when France eliminated Morocco 2-0. This time, the Moroccans arrive motivated after beating Canada 3-0 in the round of 16 and have not yet lost in the tournament.

During the interview, Upamecano and Risser also came out in defense of Kylian Mbappé after the racist attacks made by a Paraguayan senator after Paraguay's elimination.

"He is totally focused on the match, although it is unacceptable to be the target of these types of comments. We are by his side and we need to continue fighting against racism," said Upamecano.

Risser added that he hopes the case has consequences. "He is moving past these comments and we hope justice is served."

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Source: CNN