World Cup 2026: Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi defies early doubts to lead Atlas Lions into quarter-finals

When Mohamed Ouahbi was a student, one of his professors told him he lacked the qualities needed to become a physical education teacher. Years later, the Morocco head coach has silenced those doubts by guiding the Atlas Lions to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup with an impressive unbeaten run.

The 49-year-old, who was born in Belgium, has overseen an attractive and disciplined Morocco side that is yet to lose a match at the tournament. His team will face two-time world champions France in the quarter-finals in Foxborough, Massachusetts on Thursday.

Reflecting on the criticism he received during his studies, Ouahbi recalled the moment in an interview with French football magazine Onze Mondial.

“I remember him very well, my first year of studying,” Ouahbi said.

“A professor told me that in his opinion I was not made for teaching, for giving lessons, or communicating.”

The comments could have discouraged many aspiring coaches, but Ouahbi instead forged a successful career in player development before stepping onto the biggest stage in international football.

Although his playing career never reached the highest level, Ouahbi built a strong reputation as a youth coach. Before taking charge of Morocco just three months before the World Cup, replacing Walid Regragui, he had limited experience managing senior players, having spent only one season as an assistant coach at Belgian giants Anderlecht.

The majority of his coaching career was devoted to developing young talent. During a 17-year spell at Anderlecht’s academy, he helped nurture several future stars, including Belgium internationals Youri Tielemans and Jeremy Doku.

His success with youth teams continued on the international stage when he led Morocco to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup title last year. Morocco defeated France on penalties in the semi-finals before overcoming Argentina in the final to lift the trophy.

Now, Ouahbi faces another major test against a talented France side spearheaded by Kylian Mbappe, as Morocco seek to reach the World Cup semi-finals.

Despite initial concerns over his lack of senior coaching experience, Ouahbi has quickly won over critics with his calm leadership and tactical approach.

Former Morocco midfielder Abdelaziz Bennij said the coach had exceeded expectations since taking over the national team.

“There were question marks over his ability to coach a side full of stars, but what we saw in the friendlies was promising,” Bennij told AFP.

“He arrived at a time when everyone was worried. It was a huge gamble and he has succeeded.”

With Morocco continuing to impress on football’s biggest stage, Ouahbi’s remarkable rise serves as a powerful reminder that early setbacks need not define a career.