فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Walid Regragui, head coach of the Moroccan national team, confirmed that qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final was not a matter of chance, but rather the result of a positive atmosphere within the squad and strong discipline among the players. He stressed that the Atlas Lions spent an entire month without any internal issues, a stability that was directly reflected in their performance and decisive victory against Nigeria.
Speaking after the semi-final, Regragui explained that the national team is made up of a “satisfying” group of players who love Morocco and fight for the national jersey. He emphasized that harmony within the squad was a decisive factor from the very beginning of the training camp, noting that no internal disputes were recorded. He added that confidence in the players had been present even during difficult moments, with a shared belief in coming back stronger.
The national coach pointed out that reaching the final was a clear objective from the outset. He acknowledged that the team faced a technically and physically strong opponent, but said that players’ commitment to the game plan, tactical adjustments, and strong fan support enabled the team to deliver a significant physical and mental effort and ultimately secure qualification.
Focus on the Final and Mental Preparation
Regragui stressed that the players fully deserve this achievement given their fighting spirit and sincere determination to win, considering that this mindset will be decisive in the final. He added that the focus is now on proper recovery and physical and mental preparation, in order to avoid repeating past scenarios, while once again relying on strong fan support.
Dedication and Internal Messages
The coach revealed that the players received a deeply moving message before one of the matches, which had a very positive impact on the group. He announced that the qualification is dedicated to King Mohammed VI, in appreciation of the continuous support for national football, considering that what the team is experiencing reflects a long-term structural path.
Technical Choices and Defense of the Players
Regarding technical decisions, Regragui took full responsibility for certain choices, explaining that they were calculated risks. He also praised the professionalism of Youssef En-Nesyri despite becoming a substitute, stressing that he works selflessly for the team without complaint. He defended the striker’s historical goal-scoring value for the national team, describing the criticism directed at him as unjustified given his decisive goals.
Regragui also expressed his emotional reaction to what he described as an unfair wave of criticism, stating that he accepted it thanks to the strong support he received from his players, who trust their coach and show it on the pitch. He noted that criticism is part of football, especially in Morocco.
Praise for Team Leaders and the Meaning of the Jersey
The national coach commended the performances of several players, highlighting their technical quality and cohesion. For his part, team captain Achraf Hakimi expressed pride in the achievement, stating that the team faced a fierce opponent and that mental toughness and defensive discipline were key to qualification, while emphasizing that the job is not finished yet.
The Decisive Match
The Moroccan national team will face Senegal in the final, scheduled for Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, with the ambition of winning the continental title and consolidating what Regragui described as a “golden era” for Moroccan football.
Source: Fes News Media
