Rabat –Tunisian coach Nabil Maâloul set social media ablaze after delivering a set of bold, contradictory, and highly provocative predictions ahead of the Arab Cup, taking place in Qatar from December 1 to 18. His comments sparked intense debate across North Africa, especially in Morocco.
Maâloul initially praised Morocco’s first national team and stated boldly that if the Atlas Lions participated in the Arab Cup with their A-squad, they would have certainly won the title. According to him, Morocco’s current level, depth, and tactical maturity make them the strongest side in the region.
But only moments later, Maâloul made a statement that shocked Moroccan supporters. Despite acknowledging Morocco’s superiority, he favored Qatar to reach the semifinals at Morocco’s expense, blaming the recent performances of Moroccan clubs, which he described as “slightly declining.”
He pointed specifically to Wydad and Raja – two giants of African football – and their struggles in the CAF Champions League. The only Moroccan club he praised was RS Berkane, whose performances in the CAF Confederation Cup “stood out” amid a regional dip in form.
🇹🇳⚽ L’entraîneur tunisien Nabil Maâloul prévoit l’élimination du Maroc en quart de finale de la Coupe Arabe contre le Qatar et voit la Tunisie remporter la finale face à l’Égypte…
Vos avis ? 🧐👀#CoupeArabepic.twitter.com/qBu51IBpw8
— Moroccan Foot Talents (@Moroccanfoot94) November 20, 2025
Maâloul confidently predicted his Arab Cup final: Tunisia vs. Egypt, and Tunisia would lift the trophy.
These layered and seemingly contradictory remarks have fueled widespread debate. Many Moroccan fans argue that Maâloul’s logic is inconsistent: how can Morocco be the clear hypothetical champions, yet be excluded from the semifinal picture? Others claim his comments reflect a long-standing rivalry and competitive tension within North African football.
What remains certain is that Maâloul’s statements have succeeded in one thing: they ignited the regional football conversation like few predictions ever have.
