2024 CHAN: Discipline and fighting spirit motivated our win against Tanzania – Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui

Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui has lauded his side’s effort after booking a place in the last four in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The Atlas Lions defeated Tanzania 1-0 in their quarterfinal game on Friday night.

Speaking at a post-match press conference, the coach explained that the team showed how determination and willpower can overcome any obstacle. 

Sektioui stated that the match was balanced and demanding, as it required focus and tactical maturity.

“Both halves were marked by balance and competitiveness, and the game required a great deal of focus and tactical acumen,” he told the press.

The coach also commended Tanzania for proving that their success in the group stage was no accident.

Moroccan player Ayoub Khairi said that the squad gave everything to secure the win.

“We were mentally and physically ready for this challenge, and that helped us achieve this important result,” he said, adding that the team’s main goal remains winning the tournament.

Meanwhile, team captain Mohamed Rabie Hrimat spoke of the contribution of the young defenders who stepped in for absent players. He particularly commended Anas Bach and Mehdi Mchakhchekh for their maturity and strong performance in such a difficult match.

Hrimat added that this opportunity to represent Morocco’s local league on the continental stage was made possible by the hard work of the technical staff.

The first half of the match ended with neither team able to break the deadlock. The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Oussama Lamlioui scored the only goal of the game, giving Morocco the lead. 

Following this victory, Morocco will travel to Kampala, Uganda, to play in the semi-final against the winner of today’s match between Uganda and Senegal.