Midfield Trio Analysis: Harimats Loses Ball Least, El Aynaoui Leads in Recoveries, Ounahi Delivers Most Key Passes

T.E (Elbotola)

28 March 2026at18:00

The Moroccan national team's midfield trio, Rabie Harimats, Azzedine Ounahi, and Nael El Aynaoui, displayed varied performances during the friendly match against Ecuador, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The game highlighted the differing roles and contributions within the midfield.

In terms of ball retention, Harimats stood out as losing possession the fewest times, with only 3 turnovers, compared to Ounahi's 7 and El Aynaoui's 10. This indicates a difference in how each midfielder handled pressure. Regarding passing accuracy, Harimats and Ounahi shared the same impressive rate of 95%, with Harimats completing 36 out of 38 passes, while El Aynaoui recorded an 89% accuracy.

For long balls, Harimats successfully delivered one, a feature absent from Ounahi's game. El Aynaoui, however, completed two successful long balls out of four attempts, showcasing a difference in the players' offensive contributions.

Defensively, Harimats made 4 defensive contributions, compared to El Aynaoui's 3 and Ounahi's 2. Both Ounahi and El Aynaoui excelled in ball recoveries, each winning possession 3 times, while Harimats managed only one recovery.

Regarding key passes, Azzedine Ounahi delivered 3, with El Aynaoui providing 2. Harimats, however, did not register any key passes during his time on the field.

These statistics highlight the varied roles within the Moroccan midfield: one player tending to maintain tempo and control the rhythm, while others contribute more significantly to defensive duties and ball recovery. This provides the technical staff with multiple options depending on the nature of each match.

Q&A

What were the key performances of Morocco's midfield trio against Ecuador?

The Moroccan midfield trio of Harimats, Ounahi, and El Aynaoui showed varied contributions. Harimats excelled in ball retention and passing accuracy, while Ounahi delivered the most key passes. El Aynaoui led in ball recoveries.

How did each Moroccan midfielder contribute defensively and offensively?

Harimats focused on ball retention and defensive contributions, making four. Ounahi excelled in key passes and ball recoveries. El Aynaoui also contributed defensively with recoveries and completed two long balls, showcasing diverse roles.

What implications do these midfield statistics have for the Moroccan national team?

These varied statistics provide the Moroccan technical staff with multiple tactical options. The differing strengths in ball retention, key passes, and defensive work allow for tailored midfield selections depending on the nature of upcoming matches.