Tunis—Ecuador defender Willian Pacho shared his thoughts describing the result as a valuable step in their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The friendly in Madrid saw Ecuador take the lead early in the second half before Morocco responded late from a set-piece to level the score. It was a demanding test for both sides, with Ecuador extending their unbeaten run, which now stretches back to September 2024.
Speaking after the match, Pacho focused on the positives, especially the level of competition: “We leave the field with positive feelings. Playing at this level against a team like Morocco is good.”
The Paris Saint-Germain defender and teammate of Achraf Hakimi, also pointed out that the match offered important lessons ahead of the World Cup. “The goal they scored against us came from a set-piece, and we must correct that. It’s better for this to happen now rather than in the World Cup.”
Los Capitanes son los del PSG
William Pacho y Hakimi Archraf compañeros en el PSG y capitanes de cada uno de sus selecciones
pic.twitter.com/WD1yFGB7Ko— TERADEPORTES (@Teradeportes) March 27, 2026
Ecuador had moments of control, particularly in the first half, but found themselves under pressure after taking the lead. “I think the first half was much better than the second. When we scored, we had to hold on a bit. We suffered, but that’s part of football.”
On the Moroccan side, Achraf Hakimi focused on the bigger picture, as the team adapts to changes under new head coach Mohamed Ouahbi. “Since there is a new coach, a new playing system, and new players, it’s important that we start well.”
Hakimi admitted that while the result wasn’t perfect, the overall performance offered encouraging signs. “Today it wasn’t possible to achieve victory, but we are satisfied with the match we played.”
He also spoke about the urgency of improving quickly, with limited time before the World Cup. “We had to improve many things, and we don’t have much time, so we must prepare in the best possible way to arrive at the World Cup in optimal readiness.”
Read also: Ouahbi: Ecuador Draw Showed Morocco What Must Improve
