The 49-year-old Belgian-born coach remains unbeaten in the tournament. He will now lead Morocco into a high-profile quarter-final against France on Thursday in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
From doubt to success
Ouahbi’s journey has been far from easy. While studying to become a physical education teacher, one of his professors questioned his ability to teach and communicate.
Speaking to French football magazine Onze Mondial, Ouahbi recalled the moment that shaped his determination.
“I remember him very well during my first year of studying,” he said.
“He told me I was not made for teaching, giving lessons or communicating.”
Instead of accepting that judgment, Ouahbi worked harder. Years later, he has become one of the standout coaches at the World Cup.
Building a coaching career
Ouahbi never reached the highest level as a player. However, he built an impressive coaching career by developing young footballers.
Before taking charge of Morocco’s senior team, he spent 17 years with R.S.C. Anderlecht. During that time, he helped develop players such as Youri Tielemans and Jérémy Doku.
His only senior coaching experience came during one season as Anderlecht’s assistant coach.
Morocco appointed Ouahbi as head coach only three months before the World Cup. He replaced Walid Regragui despite having little experience at senior international level.
Youth success built confidence
Ouahbi had already earned praise with Morocco’s youth teams.
Last year, he guided Morocco to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup title. His side beat France on penalties in the semi-finals before defeating Argentina in the final.
Those achievements convinced Morocco’s football leaders that he was ready for a bigger challenge.
Toughest test awaits
Morocco now face one of their biggest matches in history. They will take on a France side led by star forward Kylian Mbappé.
Former Morocco international Abdelaziz Bennij believes Ouahbi has answered every question about his appointment.
“There were question marks over his ability to coach a side full of stars, but what we saw in the friendlies was promising,” Bennij said.
“He arrived when everyone was worried. It was a huge gamble, and he has succeeded.”
With Morocco still unbeaten, Ouahbi now has the chance to guide his team into the World Cup semi-finals and continue his remarkable rise.
