Rabat – The Moroccan Royal Federation of Football (FRMF) has announced that the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Morocco will host, is set to take place during the summer.
The federation made the announcement today following a series of evaluation meetings between FMRF President Fouzi Lekjaa and the national team’s head coach Walid Regragui to discuss the Atlas Lions’ performance at the 2023 AFCON held in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Moroccan national team, who entered the ongoing tournament as one of the favorites to win the AFCON title, was unfortunately eliminated after losing to South Africa 2-0 in the Round of 16.
The early elimination sparked disappointment among Moroccan fans, with many raising questions about the future of Regragui with the team and the Atlas Lions’ readiness for upcoming tournaments
However, the federation said it has “renewed its trust” in Regragui and pledged to provide all necessary resources to ensure the national team’s success.
Looking ahead to AFCON 2025, FRMF called for increased support from fans, especially those who attended the matches in Côte d’Ivoire, as the team strives for redemption in the upcoming tournament.
During the evaluation sessions, Regragui reviewed the team’s preparations for the continental tournament, emphasizing the need to learn from past experiences, especially their last match against South Africa.
In addition, Lekjaa stressed the importance of continued dedication to secure a deserving place for the team in upcoming competitions, including the remaining qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking in a press conference following the loss against South Africa, Regragui took full accountability for the team’s elimination.
“I take full responsibility, and I don’t hide behind any excuses,” the coach said while stressing that there was no reason to blame the players for their performance.
He went on to emphasize the need for collective decision-making after evaluating the team’s performance and considering potential changes.
“Yes we failed, but we will all sit together … we have time right now … and we will make the best decision for Morocco,” he said.
