Rabiot judges Morocco "not very dangerous" after France's quarter-final victory

Adrien Rabiot did not mince words after France’s 2-0 victory over Morocco on Thursday evening in the World Cup quarter-finals. The French midfielder felt that the Atlas Lions posed a limited threat throughout the match.

“We felt that in moments when we didn’t have the ball and we gave it to them, they were not very dangerous. We had little to fear from this team,” Rabiot said after the match. “That’s the feeling we had on the pitch. It’s surprising. But it remains a team that, at any moment, can also make a difference because they have extraordinary individuals. That’s why you always have to stay vigilant.”

First-half statistics illustrated this imbalance: ten shots for France by half-time, compared to none for Morocco. The Atlas Lions chose to defend in a block and circulate the ball away from Hugo Lloris’s goal, a strategy that did not convince their own supporters.

Rabiot nevertheless praised the mental strength of the Blues, particularly after goalkeeper Bounou’s initial penalty save. “We were very serious. And then, with the ball, we used it well. Even though we started badly with that penalty saved. But we stayed in it. That’s also where we see the strength of the team because we show determination, resilience too.”

The midfielder also wanted to put into perspective what might seem like a habit: a third consecutive World Cup semi-final for France. “Perhaps you become complacent. We, we are not complacent at all in the dressing room. I can tell you we were very happy. There is a lot of joy because we give everything for several weeks. The group is exceptional. Everyone is united and it’s magnificent.”

The Blues now turn their attention to the semi-final and will watch with interest the quarter-final between Spain and Belgium. Rabiot clearly expressed his preference for facing La Roja, who had eliminated France in the Euro 2020 semi-final and then in the Nations League. “Yes, of course we want revenge. No matter who it is, we will prepare as we have done from the start. We respect all teams and we would gladly take whoever reaches the semi-finals.”