Morocco Started 4 French-Born Players Against Canada
The Moroccan national team's highlight wasn't just the players' performances, but also the squad's unique composition. In their crucial Round of 16 victory over Canada, four of the starters were born and developed in France. They would have been candidates to play for France but were called up by Morocco.
Leyton Essa Diop (29 years old), Redouane Halhal, Neil El Aynaoui, and Ayyoub Bouaddi are the players developed in the European country. Essa Diop scored the winning goal in the Round of 16 victory against the Netherlands.
How Did These Players Join Morocco?
According to Metrópoles – Esportes, Issa Diop is the only one over 25 years old. The other three are promising young talents, with Diop being the most notable for scoring key goals during the World Cup.
How Did These Players Perform?
In the match against Canada, the Moroccan national team dominated in the second half and won 2-1. Young Douaddi and Halhal started the game. In the match against Brazil, they also stood out but didn't garner as much attention as Issa Diop.
Are the Matches Worth Watching?
Yes! Besides being an African classic, the match is a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of young talents who are being well utilized in the Moroccan squad.
When Does Morocco Play Against France?
This Thursday (7/9), at 5 PM, in Boston, United States. It will be a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semifinal, with Brazil observing.