Moroccan Coach Celebrates Illustrious Career in UAE: From Player to Manager

Morocco's national team coach Tariq Sekhtioui is preparing his squad for a challenging Arab Cup semifinal clash against the UAE on Monday. The coach acknowledged the difficulty ahead while emphasizing that reaching the final remains the ultimate goal for his team.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Sekhtioui highlighted the quality within the UAE squad, particularly their attacking players. "The UAE has exceptional players, especially in attack, and they're capable of making the difference," he said. This recognition comes as Morocco carries the hopes of nearly 40 million citizens who see the national team players as ambassadors of Moroccan football.

The tactical approach will focus heavily on defensive stability. Sekhtioui stressed the importance of maintaining compact lines and staying concentrated for the full 90 minutes to neutralize the UAE's offensive threats. This defensive discipline has become crucial given the caliber of players Morocco will face.

Morocco's preparation hasn't been without obstacles. The coach revealed that the team encountered significant challenges during their tournament preparations, but they're working to overcome these issues. One positive development is the return of striker Abderrazak Hamdallah to the squad, which Sekhtioui believes will make a meaningful impact.

The connection between Moroccan and Emirati football runs deeper than this single match. Several Moroccan national team players currently compete in the UAE league, creating an interesting dynamic. Sekhtioui, who previously played and coached in the UAE, expressed gratitude toward the Emirates and praised their football development.

"I'm proud that I once played in the UAE league and worked as a coach there. It was an honor to be close to the Emiratis," he said. He described UAE football as pioneering in the Gulf region, noting that having Moroccan players in their league provides additional motivation while giving UAE players valuable insight into their opponents.

The coach emphasized that Morocco's football progress didn't happen overnight. It represents years of continuous work, support, and sustained attention to development. This systematic approach has helped Morocco become competitive on the regional stage.

Sekhtioui concluded with a perspective on football that puts individual brilliance in context. Even the world's best players like Ronaldo, Messi, and Ronaldinho only touch the ball for about three minutes maximum during a 90-minute match, he pointed out. This observation underscores his team-focused approach heading into the semifinal.