Rabat – Morocco head coach Walid Regragui shared his thoughts after the national team drew 1-1 with Mali on Friday in the second round of the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025).
Speaking to Moroccan TV channels Arryadia and Al Aoula, Regragui said the national team played at a high tempo and delivered a strong performance against a tough opponent like Mali. He explained that Morocco imposed a fast rhythm throughout the game, showing the team’s high level.
Regragui noted that the Atlas Lions created many clear chances to score and could have decided the match in more than one moment. However, Mali managed to equalize after being awarded a penalty. The coach added that Morocco should have scored a second goal to secure the win.
Regragui admitted that the team needs to improve its attacking efficiency. He stressed that matches at the Africa Cup of Nations are never easy and are often won with difficulty.
“To win the Africa Cup, we must understand that every match is different,” Regragui said. “You can finish first in the group and be eliminated in the round of 16, or finish third and reach the final, like Cote d’Ivoire in the last edition.”
The coach also pointed out some mistakes made during the game, especially in passing. He explained his decision to play Ismail Saibari on the left side, saying that the player has better chemistry with Anass Salah-Eddine.
Regragui added that the level of caution was very high and that some players showed signs of fatigue. He also commended Mali, saying the team is capable of making a strong impact in the tournament.
Despite the draw, Morocco remains at the top of Group A with four points. Zambia and Mali follow with two points each, while Comoros sits at the bottom of the group with one point.
Morocco will face Zambia in the third and final group match on Monday, in a decisive game that will determine qualification to the next round.