Women's World Cup 2023 - Zayneb Amine Zouali: "The Lionesses have what it takes to beat Korea"
Morocco were hammered in their opening game. For Zayneb Amine Zouali, the Lionesses have what it takes to beat Korea.
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How did you experience the defeat against Germany?
Losing to Germany, one of the best national teams in the world, who are used to major competitions and have won several titles, is nothing unusual. We knew Germany were the big favourites and that it would be tough for our players. But what surprised me, and I'm not the only one, was the final score. 6-0 is a heavy defeat, it hurts, especially in Morocco's first match at a World Cup finals.
Looking back, how do you explain this failed start?
I think the Lionesses probably struggled to handle the stress of a big tournament match. There was quite a lot of pressure, because they represent not only Morocco but the whole Arab world, since no Arab national team had ever played in a World Cup before. And I also think the Moroccan players showed the Germans a little too much respect, giving them a lot of freedom. But heavy defeats happen, and I liked the players' reaction, as they said they would not accept defeat.
"There may be changes"
Do you think they can bounce back against South Korea?
Of course! They have the qualities, the ability to beat them. Technically, I'm not worried. I think the psychological side will be the key, whether they manage to loosen up. Because South Korea are a very good team.
A very good team who also lost their opening game, against Colombia (0-2)…
Yes. It means Morocco must win, or at least draw, to keep their hopes of qualification alive. A win would be very important before the last game against Colombia.
Do you expect the Lionesses' coach, Reynald Pedros, to make changes?
It's possible he will change a few things, perhaps tactically. He may also make changes to the starting XI. But only he can answer that question. In any case, despite the defeat against Germany, Moroccans are still behind their national team and will cheer them on on Sunday. And this presence at the finals can only be positive for women's football in the country. More and more girls want to play it, more and more people follow the matches, and others want to invest in women's football. That's also what we should take from this…
Alexis BILLEBAULT
Women's World Cup 2023: full fixtures and results