FRANCE 98 – Match preview n°18

The Moroccans, led by Henri Michel-who is returning this evening to a stadium he knows well-have nothing to lose and everything to play for this evening against Brazil (Tuesday 9 pm -7 pm GMT), at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, for the second series of games in Group A.

Formerly, a Brazil-Morocco encounter would have been a mere formality for the four time world champions. This time around it’s a little different, however, with the Brazilians still trying to find form. Tonight, the “Atlas Lions”, still on a high after their unexpected 2-2 draw with Norway, will be going all out to show what they’re capable of. Henri Michel, who played several seasons in Nantes has announced “We intend to come away with a point”.

With Mustapha Hadji, who scored a brilliant goal against Norway, but also Salaheddine Bassir, who is rated highly by Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos, Morocco aim to upset a Brazilian defence which, in the past, have been troubled by the short-passing game. The Moroccans will also be relying on rapid counter-attacks, as they did against Norway, to outwit a Brazilian defence which has not always been sure of itself recently.

“More ambitious”

On the Brazilian front, confidence is once again running high despite an indifferent outing against Scotland on Wednesday (2-1). “What was most important was the result. Now we’ve got three points we can relax and play a more adventurous game”, said Zico, the Selacao’s assistant coach.

Mario Zagallo has announced a change from the team that started the game against Scotland. Leonardo will come in for Giovanni. The AC Milan midfielder has been called on to “provide more rhythm and more speed between the midfielders and the forward line”, says Zagallo. Ronaldo, who hasn’t hit the net in four matches, will therefore be released from any defensive duties.

“The Moroccans are a good side. They really impressed me against Norway. They’re defence is weak, however, and I know we can take advantage of that”, said the Brazilian defender Roberto Carlos.The only other encounter between the two teams was on 9 October 1997 when the Brazilians ran out winners 2-0. Two goals from Denilson who will be on the bench tonight.