Photo By Rigobert Feutzing
With the exception of midfielder Azeddine Ounahi, who is still sidelined by injury, the majority of the Atlas Lions are prepared to take on the formidable Nigerian team in the semifinal of the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations finals tomorrow evening, Wednesday, according to Walid Regragui, national coach and head coach of the Moroccan senior team.
This African summit will begin at nine o’clock in the evening at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, where the national team hopes to advance to the continental final.
Regragui stated, “We continue our preparations for the semifinal after reaching this stage for the first time in years,” during the news conference held prior to the game. We are prepared to win and go to the championship game even though we will be up against a formidable opponent.
Regarding the players’ health, the “Lions” coach affirmed that Ounahi is still not eligible, but Romain Saïss has resumed training; his participation will be determined following the final practice. He added, “Except for Ounahi, all players are ready.”
Regarding the tactical element, Regragui praised the team’s play in the quarterfinal, stating: “We delivered a good match that satisfied everyone with the performance.” He also stressed that taking calculated risks is sometimes required. We will take on Nigeria, who have recovered to their full potential after missing out on the World Cup, and we are in good physical and mental health.
The national coach also discussed the controversies surrounding refereeing, stating that it is a worldwide problem that extends beyond Africa: “Unfortunately, refereeing is always talked about.” Every continent is affected by the controversy, and we have personally suffered from officiating errors in past games. Some want to downplay the importance of African football, but winning on the field is the only way to truly respond.
“In Morocco, the coach is always under pressure and criticism, even after victories,” Regragui said, expressing his annoyance with the constant criticism. I battle for my nation, and I hope that the coach who takes my place in the future outperforms me.
“We have among us the best players in the African continent, and the same goes for the Nigerian team, which makes the match strong and open to all possibilities,” he said as he wrapped up his remarks, reaffirming the strength of both teams.