Regragui: Morocco’s Is an Attacking Team That Depends on

Rabat – Under pressure since Morocco’s early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, national team coach Walid Regragui has responded to public criticism by highlighting the team’s tactical shift toward a more possession-based, attacking approach.

Speaking in an interview with French newspaper L’Équipe this week on Saturday, Regragui acknowledged Moroccans’ high expectations of the national team and the scrutiny that followed their elimination in the AFCON round of 16. Still, he made it clear that the criticism doesn’t shake his resolve to have his team play as he thinks they should.

“I accept criticism as long as it is logical. This is part of my job,” Regragui said. He explained that he expects to be judged during each training camp, but said he finds frustrating the nitpicking over stylistic choices. “What bothers me most is the search for small details, such as the style of play,” he noted.

However, the coach pointed to hard data to defend his strategy, stating, “Our offensive statistics speak for themselves, and it is unfortunate that we are viewed in the same light as the World Cup, when it is clear that there is a difference between the national team before the World Cup and after it. We are today an attacking team that depends on possession.”

Regragui described the AFCON exit as a tough moment that prompted necessary change. “After the elimination in Côte d’Ivoire, where the loss was very difficult, I worked on a new dynamic to reorganize the Lions’ squad by relying on new players in new attacking roles,” he said.

Backing up Regragui’s suggestion, L’Équipe shared statistics showing a marked evolution in Morocco’s playing style. Since Regragui took charge, the team has scored 71 goals in 35 matches—more than two per match on average—while conceding just 17.

Additionally, since the end of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, Morocco’s average ball possession has climbed to 61%, up from 45.5%. The team also holds a 68% win rate under Regragui—the highest of any coach in the national team’s history.

While the coach may be facing scrutiny from fans and commentators, he has maintained unwavering support from his players. Midfielder Brahim Diaz praised the atmosphere in the team and Regragui’s leadership.

“The Moroccan national team includes a new generation of players with great ambition and a desire to learn,” Diaz said. “A family atmosphere prevails among us, with the utmost discipline and demands. Regragui knows how to bring out the best in each of us and motivates us to be brave, to play with our hearts and minds together. We feel that we are building something great, something that can inspire future generations and leave a true legacy.”

Team captain Achraf Hakimi echoed those thoughts, emphasizing Regragui’s clarity of vision. “Walid knows what he wants, and he has a clear vision for this team. We are developing alongside him, and this is the most important thing in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations,” Hakimi said.

He added: “We have a great responsibility, as representing Morocco is a great honor. We know very well what our people expect from us, and we are ready. We are working hard, maintaining our focus, and we will do everything in our power to win this title.”

As part of their preparations for the upcoming continental tournament on home soil, the Moroccan national team will play two international friendlies against Tunisia and Benin on May 6 and 8. Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 21:00 (GMT+1) at the Fez Stadium.