Happy, confident and excited. This is how the Moroccan national team seems to be after two days of practice at the Centro de Alto Rendimento, in Jamor, Oeiras, where from Friday to Sunday will face Portugal in the 1st round of the Davis Cup Euro-African Group II. The attitude is reflected in the words of Mehdi Tahiri, the team camptain, who gave an exclusive interview to with Ténis Portugal this afternoon.
What is your first impression of the court and its conditions?
“Well, the conditions are perfect, we really like the surface. It’s a new court and we’re very happy to play on it for the first time. The organization is very nice and they’re treating us very well, we’re very happy to be here and looking forward to do our best in this competition.”
Despite being an hard court, it seems a bit slow. Do you agree?
“Yes, it’s a little bit slow compared to other hard courts, but that’s normal. They just did it brand new [painting]. I think it’s gonna get faster everyday but it’s good for both players and spectators that we have a lot of good rallies, so yes, that’s good.”
What do you know about portuguese tennis and players?
“I know almost all of them, I saw them play many times. You’ve a very good player as number 1, João Sousa, who’s on the best form of his life so congratulations for him, he’s going well but you know, this is Davis Cup, not an ATP tournament. You play for your country so we have to forgive the ranking and step on the court, try our best and hope we are in a good day and can win.”
What are Morocco’s expectations for this tie?
“Our first expectation is that the players will be in a good shape and do their best. I know on the paper that Portugal is stronger but you know, we believe that if the guys go on, have faith, confidence and try their best everything can happen.”
