Morocco’s plan to stop France talisman Kylian Mbappe? Ask his best mate.
Achraf Hakimi and Mbappe have developed a close friendship since the former joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, but they will put that bond on hold for a duel that could prove decisive.
Right-back Hakimi has been one of the stars of Qatar and will be tasked with stopping Mbappe on France’s left flank.
“Hakimi knows Mbappe better than I do,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui when asked about his plan to stop Mbappe.
Keeping Griezmann quiet
Antoine Griezmann showed his class against England.
The 31-year-old is playing a new role for France, floating and popping up in spaces all over the pitch. Griezmann will be a true test of Morocco’s defensive shape and they will need to co-ordinate who is picking him up.
Holding midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, who has been excellent so far, will be key.
Exploit France’s full-backs
Both Poland and England showed that France’s full-backs can be exposed, and that is an area for Morocco to target.
Jules Kounde is a centre-back playing out of position at right-back, while left-back Theo Hernandez loves to get forward, which leaves space behind him.
Morocco wingers Sofiane Boufal and Hakim Ziyech have excelled at this World Cup. They should look to get at the two full-backs and hurt them on the counter.
