Benmahmoud: "Players Need Confidence from Fans as Margin for Error is Now Forbidden"

Rachid Benmahmoud, assistant coach of the Moroccan national team, praised the significant role played by the fans in securing a three-nil victory over Zambia and sealing qualification for the round of 16. Benmahmoud affirmed that the public's support was crucial in backing the players throughout the match. He also emphasized the importance of trust in the squad, both from the fans and the media.

In this regard, he stated: "First, we congratulate the Moroccan people on this victory and qualification. The Moroccan public, as always, contributes to the success of any event. The fans were outstanding and helped the players from the first minute to the last, they are the real heroes of this match."

The national coach's assistant also stressed that the national team players are determined to go far in the tournament, especially since it is being held on Moroccan soil. He added: "Our players want to achieve this feat, especially as the competition is organized in our country, and the timing is right to fulfill our ambitions."

Benmahmoud also addressed the substitutions made during the match, considering that they provided the desired impact, and affirmed that the next stage requires greater focus.

He explained: "The substitutions and the players who came on made a significant contribution, and what's coming is better, but we must work hard because the margin for error was permissible at the beginning, but now it has become forbidden."

Rachid Benmahmoud did not hide the existence of criticism directed at the national team, considering some of it legitimate, while other parts were unfair. He called for the necessity of supporting the players and giving them confidence, stating: "There is valid criticism and other criticism that is incorrect, but the players need confidence, whether from the public or the press, in order to win the title."