فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui said the national team delivered a “very, very big match” against Zambia, stressing that the squad was strongly determined to continue its campaign from Rabat—something he said was achieved thanks to the team’s fighting spirit and the players’ ambition to make Moroccan fans happy.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Regragui explained that his decision to keep Sofyan Amrabat on the bench was not a matter of “technical courage,” but rather a protective measure, as the player has been competing while carrying an ankle injury, requiring careful management of his efforts to ensure readiness for the next challenges.
The coach added that the “12th player” was decisive in the result, praising the crowd’s support from the first minute. He also underlined that the team is entering a different phase with the start of the knockout rounds, under a cup-format system that does not allow mistakes. He said the group stage served as an opportunity to test tactical setups and manage the squad’s energy in order to reach the Round of 16 in optimal condition.
On technical choices, Regragui noted that the squad list includes 28 players, and that one of its current strengths is a “deep bench” offering multiple solutions. He explained that Mohammed Chibi was introduced to replace the injured Anass Salahdine, voicing confidence in Chibi’s abilities and praising his quick understanding with Brahim Diaz on the right flank, as well as Diaz’s noticeable improvement in positioning inside the box—making him, in Regragui’s words, more dangerous and effective.
He added that he is managing certain players cautiously, including Brahim Diaz, who—according to the coach—needs special protection because he has not played much with Real Madrid, as well as Achraf Hakimi, who featured for half an hour to gradually raise his match rhythm.
Regarding the match itself, Regragui said the early goal gave the players a mental advantage and helped make the difference. He praised Ayoub El Kaabi’s efficiency, stressing that the striker needs confidence and fan support to keep scoring. He also defended Azzedine Ounahi’s style of play, describing his ball-carrying risk-taking as part of his profile as a link-up midfielder, even if some lost balls can create moments of concern during matches.
Regragui called on fans to create a “sacred union,” similar to what he described as the spirit of Tunisia 2004, insisting on taking the tournament “match by match” with humility and respect for opponents. He stressed that winning the continental title will not be achieved through individual effort, but through a cohesive “family” spirit.
He concluded by thanking all supporters, including critics, saying he understands Moroccan fans’ emotions and passion for the national shirt. He urged the public to rally behind the team at this decisive stage, turning pressure into positive energy, and avoiding negative pressure that could benefit opponents—reiterating that his ultimate goal is to win the African trophy and delight Moroccan fans.
Morocco sealed a 3–0 victory over Zambia in the final group-stage match of AFCON “Morocco 2025,” confirming its control of the game and its place at the top of the group. The Atlas Lions entered with clear determination to decide the outcome early, applying high pressure and good positioning across the lines, then maintaining control in the second half. The defense kept a clean sheet while the attack proved effective in front of goal, as Morocco finished the group stage as leaders and sent a strong message to its rivals about its ambitions in the home tournament.
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Source: Fes News Media
