Tactical and Physical Profiling of the Moroccan National Football Team at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: A Data-Driven and Artificial Intelligence, Assisted Analysis

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 marked a historic milestone for Moroccan and African football, with Morocco becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament. This study aimed to systematically analyze the tactical, physical, and structural performance of the Moroccan national team across its seven matches using FIFA post-match reports. A three-level methodological approach was adopted: descriptive analysis of key performance indicators (KPIs), advanced data visualizations (radar charts, heatmaps, pass networks), and exploratory data modeling via principal component analysis (PCA) and clustering. The results reveal a high level of defensive organization, low ball possession, and effective counter-attacking strategy. The team demonstrated tactical adaptability, shifting between compact blocks and high pressing phases depending on opponent profiles. Physical workload remained consistently high, with notable peaks in total distance and high-intensity actions against Spain and France. Individual profiles, especially those of Amrabat, Hakimi, and Ziyech, illustrate differentiated roles within a well-synchronized collective framework. This study demonstrates how AI-enhanced tools and multidimensional data visualization can uncover latent performance patterns and support strategic decision-making. As Morocco prepares for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (2025) and the 2026 and 2030 FIFA World Cups, this integrative approach can serve as a model for federations seeking data-driven performance optimization in elite football.