Rabat – Yassine Bounou, Morocco’s superhero, has strongly contributed to the Atlas Lions’ qualification to the final of the AFCON.
Bounou saved Morocco’s net from two strong strikes from Nigeria. Today marks Morocco’s first qualification to the tournament final since 2004.
Bounou acknowledged tonight’s game was full of pressure, but the players were up to the task.
“Our goal was to reach the final. We have three days to prepare for the game,” Bounou said after the match. He added that all teams are strong opponents, especially when you reach a similar stage of the tournament.
Tonight’s game was undoubtedly the best, toughest, and most intense of Morocco’s journey this year.
Yet the team rose to the challenge, staying composed, strong, and resilient against both minor and major threats. The first and second halves ended goalless, sending the match into extra time. Both periods of extra time finished 0-0, pushing the game to a penalty shootout.
The tension overwhelmed Moroccans both in and outside the stadium. But once again, Yassine Bounou rose to the occasion, repeating the heroics he displayed at the World Cup in Qatar.
Coach Walid Regragui acknowledged that the game was a difficult one, describing Nigeria as a big team.
“We did all that could have been done to score in the game,” he told reporters following the game.
He said that he told his players that if they give it all, “ Allah won’t disappoint them.”
“We knew Nigeria have great players that could score in all games, but we also have a fighting team, and they do what I tell them,” Regragui indeed.
Captain Romain Saisss said the squad is happy, emphasizing that the national team has worked hard for it.
“We knew the game would be tough… but we made a good plan for it,” Saiss said. He also commended Yassine Bounou’s performance in the game.
“Only one game until we achieve our goal and dream,” Saiss added.
Saiss also said that it was difficult for him because he could not participate in Morocco’s games. But he said he overcame this stage, emphasizing that his role now is to share good energy to motivate his team.
“I feel better today. I hope I can be ready by the final. Whether I play in the final or not, I hope we win the trophy,” Saiss added.
Morocco will now face Senegal in the final match on Sunday.