WHY Bouaddi Could Make Morocco the World Cup’s Surprise Package…
Ayyoub Bouaddi is only 18, but against Brazil he played with the authority of a seasoned international midfielder.
He dropped between the centre-backs, received under pressure, played forward and repeatedly carried Morocco through Brazil’s press. His balance, composure and maturity allowed Morocco to control long spells of the game.
But Bouaddi was only one part of the problem.
Morocco’s lopsided structure caused Brazil serious issues. Hakimi pushed high on the right, Mazraoui moved inside from the left, and El Khannouss helped create overloads before play was switched towards Díaz, Saibari and Hakimi.
That exposed some major weaknesses in Brazil’s setup.
Their 4-4-2 press often became a disjointed 4-2-4, leaving Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães isolated. In possession, Brazil struggled to progress centrally and became far too reliant on Paquetá connecting the team.
So how did Brazil stay alive?
Vinícius Júnior.
The space behind Hakimi gave Vini opportunities to attack in transition, and Brazil remained dangerous whenever they could isolate their wingers one-versus-one.
Morocco’s intensity did fade in the second half, which could become a concern across a long tournament. But for large periods, they dominated Brazil through structure, technique and bravery.
This is not just the pragmatic Morocco of 2022 anymore.
With Bouaddi at the heart of it, these are the street-ballers of 2026.
How far can Morocco go at the World Cup? 👀🇲🇦
📹@sjatfkb
