2022 World Cup: We will take Morocco’s game serious – France defender Jules Kunde
France defender Jules Kunde says he and his teammates will approach their World Cup semi-final tie against Morocco with all seriousness as they seek to book a place in the final.
Morocco became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final and ended the hopes of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.
Striker Youssef En-Nesyri scored the winning goal in the first half, leaping highest to beat goalkeeper Diogo Costa to the ball and heading in to spark pandemonium at Al Thumama Stadium.
At the pre-match conference, the Barcelona defender asserted Morocco deserves their semi-final spot and for that matter, they will approach the game with all seriousness to beat the North African country on Wednesday.
“We will take this match very seriously. As I said it is no longer a surprise, they deserve to be here, they put in great performances.”
“Morocco plays with very narrow lines, leaving a short time for the ball carrier and then pressing, so you have to play in front of him with a few touches and a fast pace.”
He continued, “I am very proud to be here, and I know how lucky I am to be able to play with such an exceptional group. I hope this journey continues.”
Kunde, who shared the dressing room with Yassine Bounou at Sevilla before his departure to Barcelona has heaped praise on the latter following his exploits at the World Cup.
“I am not surprised at Bono’s level. I played with him in Seville. He is a complete goalkeeper: he is good at playing with the feet, and very strong mentally. I am happy for him.”
The Sevilla goalkeeper has been in outstanding form for the Atlas Lions, leading the North Africans to the semi-finals of the World Cup.
His penalty shootout saves against Spain ensured Morocco stunned the 2010 world champions.
Source Footballghana