Mustafa Hajji describes Bouadji as a football gem and praises Morocco's golden generation.

Former Moroccan international Mustafa Hajji praised the level displayed by the national team in their first two matches of the current edition of the 2026 World Cup, following the draw against Brazil in the first round and the victory over Scotland with a score of 1-0 in the second round.

Hajji said in a statement to "Hesport": "The Atlas Lions showed a very honorable level in the first two matches. We saw our team confident and imposing its style in the way it wants."

The same speaker added: "The Moroccan national team includes outstanding talents in all positions, and this is something that makes us all happy. I hope we continue in the same way and style in the upcoming matches."

Hajji, who won the African Ballon d'Or in 1998, continued: "What is also interesting about the national team is the average age of the players. We are talking about a golden generation with an average age of 26 years or younger, and this is not easy to find in any team, even in Brazil itself."

Hajji specifically praised midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi, saying: "He is a wonderful football gem. A player with such qualities is a great addition to the national team, which is why we hear that big clubs are seeking to sign him."

Regarding his brother Yusuf Hajji, who is part of the technical staff of national coach Mohamed Wahbi, the scorer of the "Atlas Lions" goal against Norway in the 1998 World Cup in France said: "I communicated with my brother before the Moroccan delegation traveled to America, and the atmosphere is very positive; they live like a family."

The Atlas Lions occupy the second position in Group C with 4 points, tied with the leading Brazil, following the draw between them in the first round and the victory of Achraf Hakimi's teammates over Scotland in the second round with a score of 1-0, while the Brazilian team defeated Haiti 3-0.