Geneva: Morocco could not turn their neat creative play into goals as they were held to a 0-0 draw against Ukraine in a World Cup warm-up friendly on Thursday.
Ajax winger Hakim Ziyech was twice denied by saves from Ukraine goalkeeper Andriy Pyatov, who pushed away a powerful rising shot in the 83rd minute and parried a first-half effort against the post. They were among the few clear chances for the Moroccans.
Morocco wing back Hamza Mendyl provided the cross for Ziyech’s first effort, and impressed at both ends. Mendyl also made a key tackle to deny Ukraine their clearest shooting chance in the second half, taking the ball off the toes of Brazil-born forward Marlos.
Morocco are in World Cup Group B with Spain and Portugal, and kick-off against Iran on June 15, the second day of the tournament.
Veteran midfielder Mbark Boussoufa, who plays for Al Jazira in the UAE, linked most of Morocco’s best work in a compact midfield that allowed Younes Belhanda a free role.
Coach Herve Renard tested a three-man central defence in the first half, while resting Achraf Hakimi from the starting line-up. The teenage Real Madrid full-back was given extra days off after being with his Uefa Champions League-winning club.
Morocco return to Geneva on Monday to play Slovakia, completing their training camp in the Swiss Alps.
World Cup friendly results
Luxembourg 0 Senegal 0
Morocco 0 Ukraine 0
