Wahbi: There is no problem playing in Mexico.
Moroccan national football team coach Mohamed Wahbi confirmed that the goal is to win against Haiti tomorrow, Wednesday, in Atlanta, as part of the third round of the group stage of the North American World Cup, in order to qualify for the Round of 32, noting that there is no problem in going to Mexico "as long as we are still competing for the title."
Wahbi said today, Tuesday in Atlanta, on the eve of the match: "This is our third match in this World Cup, we are in second place with four points. Perhaps, yes, we will qualify, but we still need to win the next match."
The coach also confirmed that topping the group at the expense of Brazil would not serve as a strong message to competitors, adding: "The Brazil match is a reference, but we are not looking too far ahead. We are ready for any opponent. We could face Japan, France, or Argentina. We are prepared and must be so, and we will not focus on any specific team."
The speaker added: "It is true that we hope to finish the group stage at the top of the group so we can stay in New Jersey, but if we have to travel to Mexico, we will have no problem, as long as we are still in the competition and continue to achieve our goal."
Wahbi ruled out that his players would play the match under the pressure of topping the group to remain in the United States, stating: "We want to win first, then we will see the goal difference. We respect the opponent; we have studied them well. We must be cautious in transitions, second balls, and crosses. We play to win, with the same ambition."
The coach indicated that preparing the players mentally for the match is very easy, explaining: "Because it is a World Cup match, they will be very motivated. We are here in the World Cup, and we want to win and top the group, and if we do not win, it will be a disappointment for us, so we will win first and see, without changing anything. We have the same mission and will continue to showcase our skills and quality."
He added: "I will use all 26 players. You know the list; these players are well-known, and as I said in the previous press conference, our goal is to win. There is only one goal. We will play with the best possible team, considering the opponent. This is the third match, and we are fortunate to be on the verge of qualification, but not yet; we must take the context into account. We have players in good physical condition, and we may use the same lineup, but there are still decisions to be made. The players do not know what will happen next; we are still thinking and will see."
Regarding Real Madrid star Ibrahim Diaz, Wahbi said: "We talked about it. We have many players in the number 10 position. Even the wingers can play as playmakers. Diaz is capable of playing in any position, and we are trying to find balance; he provided two assists from the wing, which means the option is successful, and you will see him moving into the depth as well."
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