As they get ready for their unexpected World Cup semifinal matchup on Wednesday, France is fully aware that Morocco is much more than just a defensive team.
Morocco has only let up one goal all tournament and advanced to the final four by defeating Spain and Portugal in the knockout rounds.
There is no chance the defending champions will take anything for granted at the Al Bayt stadium despite their excellent rapid transitions and ease with the ball in Qatar.
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“With our experience, we can avoid falling for this trick (of being over confident). They have arrived at that point for a purpose, “Vice-captain of France and center defender Raphael Varane remarked at a press conference on Monday.
“It will be really challenging because they defend very effectively. As the team’s leaders, it is our responsibility to get everyone ready for a new war. You must give your all in this World Cup semifinal if you want to earn a spot in the championship game.”
Varane is aware of the confidence that Walid Regragui’s team will exude.
They have a collective force, and their performances have given them a lot of confidence, he said. “They’re writing Moroccan football history.”
They are incredibly physically fit and deadly during set pieces and counterattacks.
Jules Kounde, the right back who will be responsible for stopping Sofiane Boufal on the flank, doesn’t need to be reminded of Morocco’s strengths.
“I’m not concerned, but we are going to take it seriously because we know they beat good teams to get there. Any longer a surprise to see them here. They should be here, he declared.
They are really little. They offer the player with the ball very little time to organize himself. Kounde advised playing quickly and attempting to upset their balance.
“We’re aware of their strengths. They combine swiftly to locate their two wingers and are quite effective with the ball.
“What they did is impressive, especially when you consider the tams they played, only giving up an own goal. To score, we’ll need to be extremely accurate.