Fresh from a 4–0 win over Uganda in their final match before the Africa Cup of Nations, Walid Regragui was satisfied and demanding in the press conference. Morocco’s performance at the Tangier Grand Stadium — controlled, efficient and never really threatened — was the perfect backdrop for a coach who feels his team is ready for the next step.
Regragui started the post-match press conference by praising the attitude and sharpness of his players. He said, “I’m happy with this efficiency and this mindset. We’re heading into the AFCON with a good mindset and without doubts and staying true to our values. We’re scoring goals, and there aren’t too many chances against us.”
His words were echoed on the pitch. The team’s control, intensity and technical fluidity were exactly what the coach wanted to see in their last rehearsal before AFCON 2025.
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Years of reconstruction for one goal: winning the 2025 AFCON home
Regragui revisited the past two years of rebuilding after the disappointment of AFCON 2023. He made this year’s ambition clear, saying: “We will have to win the AFCON. We built something after AFCON 2023. We managed the aftermath of South Africa. At home, we will be difficult to play against, we’ve proven that. We have improved and rejuvenated the team. We have integrated young players while keeping our certainties. I have no doubts and we arrive with confidence. But nothing is guaranteed, we are focused on the AFCON. Let’s hope there are no injuries.”
His words left no room for compromise. For Regragui, this AFCON — held in six Moroccan cities — must be a turning point.
Regragui also talked about the absence of two key players, Achraf Hakimi (ankle) and Nayef Aguerd (pubalgia) and said that despite missing them, the team was still balanced. On Hakimi, who is in the running for African Player of the Year, Regragui was categorical: “Logically, there is no world where Achraf doesn’t win it. For us, it’s the Ballon d’Or of the heart. We hope he’ll win it. We hope to be happy tomorrow and celebrate with Achraf. He is an extraordinary player.”
A dominant win, a growing collective identity and a coach who takes the pressure publicly — all the signs are pointing in the same direction: Morocco are going for the title. As Regragui said, “What interests me is winning the AFCON and making history.”
