New Morocco coach says team spirit will tell

By AZIZ EL YAAKOUBI

RABAT, Morocco (AP) Newly appointed Morocco coach Rachid Taoussi has promised improved team spirit and attacking intent will help overturn a 2-0 deficit in African Cup of Nations qualifying to advance to the tournament next year.

Having replaced Eric Gerets last month, Taoussi said Tuesday that Morocco would prevail in its home leg against Mozambique "because we only need two goals to get us level and of course we will have the support of the people."

The 56-year-old Taoussi was employed after Gerets' team lost in Mozambique. Gerets already was under pressure after Morocco had been eliminated in the first round at the last African Cup.

Taoussi says "we will beat Mozambique. There is a new spirit in the team."

The former Morocco assistant under Henri Michel was hired on a one-year contract.

Updated October 2, 2012