Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Ayyoub Bouaddi Stands by Morocco Choice Despite World Cup Exit to France

Posted : 10 July 2026

Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi says he has no regrets about choosing to represent the Atlas Lions despite their 2-0 defeat to France in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals. The 18-year-old, who switched his international allegiance from France earlier this year after captaining the French Under-21 side, insisted his decision was made from the heart and remains one he is immensely proud of.

France secured their place in the semi-finals thanks to second-half goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, ending Morocco's impressive World Cup campaign. Although the Atlas Lions were unable to repeat their historic run to the last four from 2022, Bouaddi believes the tournament has laid the foundation for future success.

Born and raised in France, the Lille midfielder emerged as one of the breakout stars of the tournament after making an immediate impact for Morocco. His performances quickly established him as a regular in Mohamed Ouahbi's side, and despite struggling to influence the match against France, he remained optimistic about what lies ahead for the national team.

Reflecting on the defeat, Bouaddi said Morocco gave everything against one of the world's strongest teams but acknowledged there are important lessons to take from the experience. He believes the squad will continue to grow by addressing the small details that separated them from France and is confident they can challenge even deeper in future international tournaments.

Morocco's campaign still represented another milestone for African football, as the Atlas Lions became the first African nation to reach consecutive World Cup quarter-finals. While their journey ended against France, Bouaddi stressed that the team's commitment and ambition remain unchanged as they continue building toward future competitions, including the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host.

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :