Arab Cup: Atlas Lions face Oman with a place in the quarterfinals on the line

The Moroccan squad aims to build on its strong start to the competition after a convincing 3 to 1 victory over the Comoros in the opening match.

The challenge will not be easy for Mohammed Rabie Harimat and his teammates against an Omani side that will play all its cards to keep its qualification hopes alive, especially after opening the tournament with a 2 to 1 loss to Saudi Arabia. On paper, Morocco enters the match as the favorite, with an experienced roster accustomed to this type of competition.

Player Walid El Karti told the press on the sidelines of the pre-match training session that the win against the Comoros allowed the national team players to settle quickly into the competition, adding that the first match is crucial in every tournament and that such a victory boosts the squad’s morale as it aims to go far.

For his part, Mohamed Rabie Hrimat said that the shortcomings seen in the second half against the Comoros will be corrected to ensure the national team continues on a strong path in this Arab Cup. He stressed that the players are determined to win this match and secure qualification as early as the second matchday.

Meanwhile, Oman’s coach Carlos Queiroz is aware that only a victory can keep his team’s chances alive, which makes the match against the Atlas Lions feel like an early final for the Sultanate of Oman.

Morocco leads Group B with 3 points after its win over the Comoros (3 to 1), while Oman sits in last place with 0 points following its loss to Saudi Arabia (1 to 2). The match will be officiated by Paraguayan referee Juan Gabriel Benítez, assisted by Eduardo Cardozo and Milciades Saldivar.

Editorial team/le7tv