World Cup 2026: Ayoub Bouaddi confirms his choice for Morocco

09.07.26 FT World Cup

France

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Morocco

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France knocked Morocco out 2-0 on Thursday, July 10 in the World Cup quarterfinal. After the final whistle, Ayoub Bouaddi was keen to clarify his decision to represent Morocco.

The 18-year-old midfielder has no regrets: he plays for Morocco with pride. The Lille player declared, “I have no regrets about choosing Morocco. It was a decision from the heart, no matter what happens.”

Against France, the country of his birth and the team he once played for at youth level, the match had a special flavor. “It was a special game because I am both Moroccan and French. But once I step onto the pitch, there’s no room for emotion. I give everything for the country I represent. I feel immense pride wearing this shirt.”

After a standout performance in his World Cup debut, Bouaddi continues to make history. At 18 years and 280 days old, he became the second-youngest player ever to appear in a World Cup quarterfinal—surpassed only by Pelé, who played against Wales in 1958 at 17 years and 239 days.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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