Sports 14 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Morocco Coach Defends Decision to Field Teenager Bouaddi Against Brazil
Morocco Women's national team coach, Jorge Ouahbi, has stated that deploying 18-year-old forward Nour Ema Bouaddi in their World Cup match against Brazil posed no risk. He emphasized her readiness despite it being her senior international debut. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/-it-was-no-risk-to-play-18-year-old-bouaddi-against-brazil-morocco-s-ouahbi-5495628
Morocco’s tactician, Jorge Ouahbi, has defended his choice to field 18-year-old Nour Ema Bouaddi in their crucial World Cup encounter against powerhouse Brazil. Ouahbi asserted that it was a calculated decision and not a gamble, highlighting Bouaddi’s preparedness for the senior international stage.
Bouaddi, a promising talent from French club Lille, made her first senior international appearance for the Atlas Lionesses during the match. Despite the immense pressure of facing a formidable opponent like Brazil, who are five-time World Cup champions, Ouahbi believes the young forward was more than capable.
“It was no risk to play her,” Ouahbi stated, underscoring his confidence in the player’s abilities and development. He indicated that her inclusion was a testament to her progress and readiness to compete at the highest level of women’s football.
The decision to field a debutant against a team of Brazil’s caliber demonstrates Ouahbi’s faith in his squad’s depth and the emerging talent within Moroccan women’s football. The experience, while challenging, is seen as invaluable for Bouaddi’s growth as a professional athlete.
Morocco aims to make a significant mark in their debut World Cup appearance, and Ouahbi’s strategic choices reflect a forward-thinking approach to team building and player development. The team’s performance against Brazil, and the integration of young players like Bouaddi, are key indicators of their future potential.