5 Youngsters Who Can Raise Moroccan Hopes In Qatar 2022 World Cup

Azzedine Ounahi (right) with senior player Sofiane Boufal (Instagram @azzedine_ounahi)

JAKARTA - Luck was not on Morocco's side in the 2022 World Cup final draw. Joined in Group F, they will face the runners-up and bronze medalists of the 2018 World Cup, Croatia and Belgium, as well as the team that won the Concacaf qualifier, Canada.

However, there is reason for Moroccan optimism. Atlas Lions fans believe the youngsters in Vahid Halilhodzic's squad can help them repeat their 1986 World Cup achievements.

In Mexico 36 years ago, Morocco finished first in a tough group that also includes England, Poland and Portugal to reach the last 16.

So, who are the best young Moroccan players who can help this team speak volumes in Qatar? Here's the list.

Azzedine Ounahi, 22 years old

Azzedine Ounahi's popularity is certainly high at the moment, after she sent the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca into a rumble with two goals against Congo to seal Morocco's place at this year's World Cup. The Casablanca native, who currently plays for French club Angers, has such abilities that Halilhodzic called him into the squad for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon recently.

When he had the ball, Ounahi was difficult to get to and the threat was real when he passed in the final third. Apart from that, his talent for shooting from distance is easy, and it's easy to see why so much hope is pinned on him for Qatar.

Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, 20 years old

Ezzalzouli is one of the most prominent young Moroccans who is expected to make a name for himself in Qatar. The Barcelona rising star is yet to officially debut for the Atlas Lions, but was named in the squad for the two-legged play-off last month.

A raw talent, Ezzalzouli is known for his speed on the flanks and his ability to get past opponents. He is also physically strong and works equally well on both sides. If he continues to build on his promising early form with the Catalan club, then he will surely become a key member of the national squad.

Chadi Riad, 18 years old

Barcelona defender Chadi Riad is one of the most promising young defenders based in Europe. With his incredible physical ability and skill steadily improving, there is every reason to think he is ready for action in Qatar 2022.

Riad plays in the youth category of the national team and is looking forward to his chance with the senior team. And while the Moroccan rearguard looks secure with Romain Saiss and Nayef Aguard, he could give Halilhodzic another option for Qatar.

Imran Louza, 22 years old

Imran Louza quickly established himself as a key member of Vahid Halilhodzic's army. In fact, the Bosnian coach knows the player well since they were together at French club Nantes. Louza's versatility and physical strength make him a versatile midfielder capable of playing both offensive and defensive roles.

Enjoying the full trust of his coach, the Watford man has paid back that trust with great form of late. It will be a big surprise if he is not an important player for Atlas Lions in the upcoming World Cup.

Imran Lauza (Instagram @watfordofficial)

Zakaria Aboukhlal, 22 years old

Aboukhlal is one of the players Halilhodzic has consistently called up, including at the Africa Cup of Nations in January. Listed as a player for Dutch club AZ Alkmaar, he is a talented striker who consists in front of goal and is adept at operating in tight spaces.

Brimming with impressive stamina, he works tirelessly to assist in defense and press continuously when not in possession. He is another player who can't wait to show his credentials to the world.