Abdellah Ouazane has been praised by Spanish newspaper AS after making his first official appearance for Morocco in the Atlas Lions’ 2 0 victory over Gabon.
The 17 year old Ajax Amsterdam midfielder came off the bench during the final 15 minutes of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match and immediately attracted attention with his performance.
AS described Ouazane’s first steps with the Moroccan national team as “very noteworthy”, highlighting the teenager’s technical ability and potential.
The Spanish sports daily said the young midfielder had shown enough during his brief appearance to “establish himself as one of the diamonds available to the Moroccan national team”.
Ouazane was introduced late in the match as Morocco secured victory in their opening qualifying fixture. His appearance marked the beginning of his senior international career at just 17.
AS considers the attacking midfielder “one of the greatest raw talents of his generation”, with expectations now growing around his future at both Ajax and international level.
The publication also noted that Ouazane has become the third youngest player to make his debut for the Moroccan national team.
His first appearance for the Atlas Lions was an emotional moment for the teenager, who spoke about the significance of representing Morocco at senior level.
According to AS, Ouazane described the experience as a “dream come true” after making his international debut.
The teenager’s performance has also attracted praise from Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who has explained the decision to bring him into the senior squad at such a young age.
Ouahbi pointed to the player’s personality and his ability to handle pressure as important qualities behind his selection.
The Morocco coach also praised Ouazane as an “extremely talented” player and described him as someone who embodies “the future of Moroccan football”.
Ouazane’s debut came as Morocco began their latest AFCON qualifying campaign with a 2 0 win over Gabon.
Although he was given only a short period on the pitch, his introduction provided an early glimpse of the qualities that have generated excitement around him.
For AS, the teenager’s emergence represents another indication of the talent available to the Moroccan national team.
Ouazane will now look to build on his first senior appearance as expectations continue to grow around the young midfielder following his introduction to international football.
