Ahead of Safi, assistant coach Karim Khoukhchi takes stock
Speaking to Radio Mars on Thursday at the Maâmoura training ground in Khémisset, IZK’s assistant coach looked back on the three wins that opened the season, the preparation for the trip to Safi and the state of the squad.
For Karim Khoukhchi, IZK’s strong start comes first from the preparation: the club was among the first to return to training, signed experienced players and looked for a balance between experience and youth. The two away wins, at Khénifra and then at Stade Marocain, were not easy, but the hardest, in his view, was against Olympique Khouribga, a historic club aiming to go back up: a poor first half, then a much better second half that turned the game around.
Training resumed on Wednesday. That day, last weekend’s starters trained at the Maâmoura while the other players played a friendly in Rabat against Touarga (1-1). The assistant coach describes serious, demanding sessions and a receptive group.
Only one player had been missing so far: El Mahdi Barkaoui. Back in training this week, he will be available on Sunday if his physical condition allows.
In Safi, IZK face a club relegated from Botola Pro that wants to go straight back up. Karim Khoukhchi expects a tough game for both sides: in his view, the team that is more disciplined tactically and makes fewer mistakes will win. Kick-off is on Sunday 18 October at 5 pm at the El Massira stadium.
Interview broadcast by Radio Mars, conducted by Marouane Mahdan.