Rabat—Morocco head coach Walid Regragui spoke to the media on Tuesday ahead of the AFCON 2025 semi-final against Nigeria, providing insight into his team’s approach and fitness updates.
Regragui stressed that the team has been preparing very methodically. He mentioned that they often use the first few games of the AFCON to test out new strategies and make sure important players get enough time on the pitch. “We know that the early stages involve trying out some things, and also trying to give playing time to some players, such as Hakimi and Igamane, and sometimes we take risks with certain decisions,” he said.
He also looked back on the quarter-final win against Cameroon and how much that win meant to both the players and the fans. “The match against Cameroon reassured many people, but for us, it depends on the opponent. For example, facing Cameroon in the quarter-finals raises the level of motivation and pushes you to elevate your performance. After the match against Cameroon, the fans felt happy because they saw a team competing on the field.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Nigeria, Regragui made it clear how strong the opposition is and what a huge challenge they are facing. “We will face a good team that is rising strongly in the tournament and has managed to overcome the disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup. We are in good shape and are working to confirm what we have been working on for years.”
The coach also provided an update on player availability, making a joke about midfielder Azzedine Ounahi. “Azzedine Ounahi will play tomorrow… No, no, I’m just joking with you, he is injured,” he confirmed.
Regragui added that Romain Saiss has returned to training and that the final decision on his involvement will be made after the last training session. “Apart from Ounahi, all other players are present with the squad and ready,” he said.
The semi-final match is tomorrow at 9 p.m. (GMT+1) at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Moroccan fans are hopeful their team will make it to the final and take home the cup on home soil.
