FRANCE 98 – Morocco – Henri Michel: “We must avoid defensive errors and attain a more efficient offence”

Morocco – Henri Michel: “We must avoid defensive errors and attain a more efficient offence”
07.06.98 16h24 CET

Henri MICHEL, MOROCCO national team coach (Group A) :

Statements made in Aix-en-Provence

Three days away from their first match in MONTPELLIER (MOROCCO – NORWAY, Group A), the Moroccan players have completed an intensive training session, followed by a press call, during which Henri MICHEL answered journalists’ questions:

“Players NAYBET and HADJI are in normal training. They will be in form for the opening match. Moreover, NAYBET participated without any problem in the practice match that took place on Saturday 6 June against Vitrolles, a team progressing in CFA 2.” (MOROCCO won with a score of 5 – 0; goals by ELKHATTABI (2), OUAKILI (2), and CHIPPO (1).)

“I have made my choice for the official goalkeeper, but his identity will only be disclosed at the last minute.”

“After the Hassan II tournament and the friendly match against CHILE, there was an evident improvement in our game. We must, however, continue to improve in order to prevail against our adversaries in a competition such as the World Cup. We must, at all costs, avoid defensive errors and attain a more efficient offence, a problem that is not new to our game. The duo BASSIR – HADDA could solve this problem.”

“Concerning the new rules, I hope the players will adapt well and avoid the obstacles brought on by them, particularly the tackle from behind. I hope also that the referees will be conscious of the danger of making too many examples of players during the very first matches.”

“Obviously BRAZIL has a great team, with a superior organisation, and players who can make a difference at any moment; however, all qualified teams for this World Cup are likewise very well organised.”

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