Patrice Evra has named Morocco as his dark horses to cause an upset in the World Cup knockout stages as they prepare for a quarter-final clash with France. The former Manchester United defender highlighted the African side's resilience and belief as qualities that make them a difficult opponent.
Morocco's World Cup Journey
Morocco became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final four years ago in Qatar, before losing to eventual runners-up France. Under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, they have once again impressed this summer. They opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against five-time winners Brazil, followed by wins against Scotland and Haiti to finish second in Group C. This marks only the third time in their history that Morocco have reached the knockout rounds.
In the round of 32, Morocco defeated the Netherlands on penalties before thumping co-hosts Canada to set up a quarter-final rematch with France. Didier Deschamps' side have a perfect record at this World Cup so far.
Evra's Dark Horse Prediction
Speaking to Stake, Evra explained why he believes Morocco can succeed. 'A dark horse is not always the team with the biggest names,' he said. 'Sometimes it's the team that is willing to suffer the most. If I have to pick one from the teams still alive, I like Morocco. They have character, they fight, they believe, and nobody enjoys playing against them in knockout football.'
Evra competed at two World Cups with France, captaining the side during a disastrous group-stage exit in 2010 and returning to reach the quarter-finals in 2014.
France's Ambitions and Mbappe's Role
France, spearheaded by Kylian Mbappe, have the opportunity to become just the third nation after West Germany and Brazil to reach three consecutive finals. However, Evra cautioned that Mbappe cannot win the World Cup alone. 'When you have Kylian Mbappe, of course you play to his strengths. That is normal. You don't have that kind of weapon and pretend he is just another player,' Evra said.
'I've been tough on Kylian before, but never because of his talent. It's because I want him to become even more complete, more responsible for the whole team, not just for the moments when he scores. What I like in this World Cup is that he's making better decisions. He's involving people more. France are stronger when Mbappe is at his best, but let's be clear: you don't win a World Cup with one player. Everyone still has to do their job.'
What's Next
Should France get past Morocco, they would face the winner of Spain versus Belgium for a place in next Sunday's final in New Jersey.
