Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouabi said his team faces a formidable Brazil on 14 June in their World Cup Group C opener, dismissing recent criticism of the five-time world champions.
"Many say it is no longer the Brazil of before. But it is still Brazil. Honestly, if you look at the quality of their players, their passion and determination to win this World Cup, it is still Brazil," Ouabi told FIFA's official website.
"For us it is a prestige match. For us it is a great honour to start our World Cup campaign against Brazil," he added, emphasizing Morocco's respect for the opposition.
Brazil begin Group C play on 14 June seeking to end a 24-year wait for the World Cup trophy, having last won the competition in 2002.
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