Morocco’s manager Walid Regragui claims that his squad is “one of the four best teams in the world right now” as they strive to make more history and go to the World Cup final.
When Morocco plays host to defending champions France on Wednesday, it will be the first time an African country has participated in a World Cup semifinal.
“Why not reach the final of the World Cup? We will show great desire and try to pull off an upset,” said Regragui.
“We’ve come to this competition to change mindsets within our continent.”
Morocco have already beaten Belgium, Spain and Portugal on their way to the last four in Qatar.
“Before every match people thought we would get knocked out, but we’re still here,” added Regragui, who only took charge of the side in August. “We’re getting closer to our dreams and we’ll fight to get there.
“If we say the semi-final is enough, I don’t agree. We aren’t satisfied with the semi-final and being the first African team to do that. We want to go further.
“You might think that’s crazy, but a bit of craziness is good.
“We’re hungry. I don’t know if it will be enough, but we want Africa to be on top of the world. I know we’re not favourites but we’re confident.”
In 1986, when they lost in the round of 16, Morocco had its previous best World Cup showing. Prior to this year, they failed to advance from the group stage the other four times they qualified.
They began this tournament rated 22nd in Fifa’s world rankings, however they have drew 0-0 with 2018 runners-up Croatia and defeated three top-ten opponents.
Morocco topped Group F thanks to a 2-0 victory over second-placed Belgium. Later, they defeated Spain on penalties in the round of 16 and defeated Portugal 1-0 in the quarterfinals.
Regragui said his team could cause another shock, adding: “We have beaten some top sides. Its’s a knockout game and when you have desire, commitment and the support of the crowd, you can win it.
“The further you get, the more difficult the games are. We are playing the world champions with world-class players and a very good coach [Didier Deschamps] – possibly the best in the world.”
West Ham United centre-back Nayef Aguerd and former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Romain Saiss are major doubts for Wednesday’s match because of injuries.
About 20,000 Morocco fans are expected to be at the Al Bayt Stadium for the match.
QPR winger Ilias Chair said: “It’s a great honour to play for these fans and make them proud.
“They are the best fans in the world. We are out there to give our all and hopefully at the end, be the best.”
Source: BBC
