Mohamed Ouahbi refuses to underestimate Morocco’s AFCON 2027 qualifiers opponents

Mohamed Ouahbi has reacted to Morocco’s draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after the Atlas Lions were placed in Group A alongside Gabon, Niger, and Lesotho.

Speaking to the official channels of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Ouahbi admitted Morocco are familiar with all three opponents but warned against underestimating any team in the qualification campaign.

“These teams are not surprises; they are opponents we know well,” Ouahbi said.

“We have had the opportunity to play against them in recent years. I think it is an advantage to be able to face teams we are already familiar with.”

Morocco Targeting AFCON Glory

The Morocco coach made it clear that the Atlas Lions will enter the competition with one clear objective: winning the continental title.

“For this Africa Cup of Nations, our ambition and legitimate objective is to win it,” Ouahbi explained.

“We know that to make that goal a reality, we have to get through the rounds and qualify.”

He added that Morocco must continue preparing seriously and maintain full respect for every opponent despite being considered favourites in the group.

“To win our matches, finish first, and qualify, we must show a lot of respect. These teams have shown us that we must be very respectful toward our opponents.”

Ouahbi Praises Gabon and Badou Zaki’s Niger

Discussing Group A rivals Gabon, Ouahbi highlighted the team’s strong recent performances during the World Cup qualifiers.

“They are a highly competitive team that knows how to be formidable thanks to the quality of their players. We will have to approach these matches well,” he stated.

The coach also spoke warmly about Niger, who are managed by Moroccan coaching legend Badou Zaki.

“As for Niger, first of all, there is a bit of personal affection because we will meet Badou Zaki, who is an absolute legend here in Morocco and an inspiration for us coaches,” Ouahbi said.

He added that both Niger and Lesotho have shown significant improvement and deserve respect heading into the qualifiers.

Atlas Lions Already Focused on AFCON 2027

Ouahbi concluded by recalling Morocco’s difficult recent encounter against Lesotho during the World Cup qualifiers.

“During the World Cup qualifiers, we only won 1-0 in one of our matches,” he recalled.

“We will have to take these fixtures very seriously. As soon as the World Cup is over, we will shift our entire focus to this. Winning it is one of our main objectives.”

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to begin on June 19, 2027, with the final set for July 17, 2027.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda across East Africa.