Tarik Sektioui sets clear objective as Morocco aim to defeat Comoros in Arab Cup opener

Tarik Sektioui says Morocco’s A’ national team will enter their Arab Cup campaign with complete focus on winning their opening match against Comoros at Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan on Tuesday.

The head coach explained in Doha that the encounter will demand full concentration from his squad, as Comoros arrive with strong momentum and a group of promising young players.

He acknowledged that the Moroccan side face a challenging task, especially as the Comorian team began their preparations well in advance of the tournament.

Sektioui highlighted that several Moroccan players reported late to camp, with some joining only days or even hours before the competition.

He cited Walid El Karti, who linked up with the squad on Sunday after club commitments with Pyramids FC.

Despite these constraints, Sektioui described the team environment as positive and professional.

He said the medical staff continue to work intensively to ensure all players regain full fitness, particularly those who recently featured in African club competitions.

He confirmed that Achraf Bencherki will miss the first two matches due to injury.

The coach emphasised that every player understands the weight of representing Morocco and the responsibility that comes with it.

Forward Walid Azaro echoed his coach’s confidence, stating that preparations have progressed smoothly and that the squad will fight to achieve strong results.

He believes the team’s experience positions them well to make a meaningful impact in the tournament.

Azaro added that Morocco will approach the competition step by step, with full commitment in each match.

Comoros head coach Hamad Jambay also spoke about the upcoming fixture, noting the strength of the Moroccan team while expressing his intention to push for a positive outcome.

He underlined that all 16 participating nations share the ambition of advancing beyond the group stage.

Morocco will meet Comoros on Tuesday before facing Oman on 5 December.

Their final Group B match comes against Saudi Arabia on 8 December. The Qatar 2025 Arab Cup features 16 teams from Africa and Asia, with the top two from each group progressing to the knockout round.