FRANCE 98 – MatchQuotes
10.06.98
Match Number 2 MOR – NOR Quotes Henri MICHEL, MOROCCO (Group A) team manager :
“Okay, one point is not three points, especially given the circumstances. We didn’t have time to get into position when we gave away the second goal. We had a tactical game plan, and stuck to it for the most part. I think we prepared for this match by trying to make the Norwegians come to us and beat them at their own game. But I still have some regrets concerning the match itself.”
Egil OLSEN, NORWAY (Group A) team manager :
“We came up against a really strong Moroccan side, and we had the proof of that tonight.
We started the match well, but we gradually lost control of the play, so we changed tactics.
I was surprised by the long balls. The end of the match was particularly hard, but we came back strongly towards the end of the match and stayed in the game. I’m not disappointed because we’re still in the tournament with one point.”
Frode GRODAS (1), Captain and Goalkeeper:
“We were surprised by the Moroccans, who were very good physically. The most surprising fact was that they played Norwegian style football–long deep balls. We were a little tense since it was an opening match, but above all it was the quality of the Moroccan play that bothered us.
For the next match against SCOTLAND (Group A) we’ll remember the positive aspects of tonight’s game in order to win and to qualify for the last sixteen.”
Dan EGGEN (15), Goal in the 61st minute:
“Even though I scored a goal, I’m not satisfied with my performance. The second Moroccan goal was my fault and I feel guilty about it. MOROCCO played very well tonight, but NORWAY didn’t make the most of their physical potential. I think that we were closer to winning than MOROCCO however.”
Tore Andre FLO (9):
“Tonight we played against a very good Moroccan team. The result of the match reflects our inadequate attack. Our team was too defensive and we lacked speed on our opponents’ long balls.”
Nourredine NAYBET (6), Captain:
“I’d like to thank my team, who played courageously and efficiently. Everyone played their part well. Despite enormous pressure from NORWAY, who are a great team, we gradually became more confident and more creative. We gave away two stupid goals. Happily, our goals speak for themselves and they show that we’re a team worthy of this competition. We can go into our second match against BRAZIL (Group A) without any hang-ups. As for my ankle injury, I’ve had no more trouble.”
Driss BENZEKRI (12), Goalkeeper:
“The Norwegians are physically very strong. They play deep, and their forwards are very quick. It’s a shame they equalised each time we scored. We could have won this evening. We should have scored more goals in the first half, but that’s football for you. But it’s a good result for MOROCCO.”
El Moustafa HADJI (7), :
“I’m happy with this result, it’s a good one. It was a difficult and tricky match, but we gave them something to think about. We expected strong opposition from NORWAY. We gave away goals because of mistakes, but this experience will prove useful for the rest of the competition. We played good football and I hope we’ll keep it up. Anyway, we have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”