Benchikha: 'Moroccan and Algerian Players Have Tactical Issues, Unlike Tunisians'
T.E (Elbotola)
11 May 2026at12:39
Abdelhak Benchikha, coach of Ittihad Tanger, discussed some of the tactical problems faced by "Maghrebi" players.
Speaking at the press conference following his team's 1-1 draw against Difaâ El Jadidi, Benchikha stated: "Moroccan, Algerian, Libyan, and Egyptian players have tactical problems. When we have possession, everything is good, but when we lose the ball, problems arise."
He added: "This is the issue I am currently addressing. 'There are players who hide to rest, and you don't see them for about 5 minutes. If you don't call out to them and tell them to move, they will say: Let me catch my breath.' Do you know what 5 minutes means in football?"
Q&A
What tactical issues did Abdelhak Benchikha identify in Maghrebi players?
Abdelhak Benchikha stated that Moroccan, Algerian, Libyan, and Egyptian players face tactical problems, particularly when losing possession. He noted some players tend to "hide to rest" for several minutes during matches, which significantly impacts team performance and cohesion.
How do these tactical problems impact team performance, according to Benchikha?
Benchikha explained that these tactical issues, especially players hiding to rest, create significant problems when the team loses possession. This behavior means players are not actively contributing for crucial periods, disrupting the team's defensive structure and overall play.
What is Abdelhak Benchikha currently doing to address these player issues?
Abdelhak Benchikha is actively working to address these tactical problems within his team. He is focusing on improving player engagement and movement, particularly after losing possession, to ensure all players contribute consistently throughout the entire match duration.
