Former Marseille Midfielder Regains Brilliant Form on Global Stage After Club Struggles
Following a narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay, France will face a high-flying Morocco side in the World Cup quarter-finals. The Atlas Lions booked their spot after a dominant 3-0 victory against Canada, fueled by a brilliant tactical setup and an exceptional individual performance from playmaker Azzedine Ounahi.
Ounahi, now 26, stole the spotlight by scoring a crucial brace against Canada to maintain Morocco's unbeaten momentum. Journalists note that Morocco operates as a highly organized unit, demonstrating immense defensive composure while remaining dangerous in transition, which presents a serious tactical puzzle for Les Bleus ahead of their Thursday fixture.
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The midfielder previously earned a high-profile transfer to Olympique de Marseille after his breakout 2022 World Cup performance, but failed to cement his role. Expert analysis from Laurent Perrin suggests Ounahi cracked under pressure and fierce squad competition in Marseille, leading to a peripheral squad role and a subsequent loan deal to La Liga side Girona.
Despite struggling for consistent minutes in domestic club football, Ounahi transforms into an inspired figure when wearing the national team shirt. With unlimited tactical freedom and complete trust from his national team coach, the midfielder poses a primary threat to France's ambitions of securing a third World Cup title.