CAN 2025: Regragui Calls Morocco-Nigeria Match a “Final Before the Final”

The national coach, Walid Regragui, declared on Tuesday in Rabat that the semi-final against Nigeria is a “final before the final.”

“It’s been a long time since Morocco reached the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). We are going up against a strong and consistent team, and we hope to win the match to qualify for the final,” he stated during the pre-match press conference.

He added that the mental strength of his team will be crucial:

“Nigeria has good players and a solid bench, but it is vital to stay mentally strong to prevent them from gaining momentum and to maintain our own technical and athletic impact.”

A demanding test for both teams

According to Regragui, this match will serve as a true test for both teams.

“We have made progress since the first round, thanks to the form of players like Hamza Igamane, Achraf Hakimi, and Brahim Diaz.”

He also highlighted that Nigeria, after their elimination from the World Cup, will be focused on this competition and determined to achieve a positive result.

“The last four teams in this AFCON are the strongest, with African Ballon d’Or winners facing each other. This is the best representation we can offer of African football,” the coach added.

Monir El Kajoui: Ready for the big challenge

Goalkeeper Monir El Kajoui expressed his satisfaction at reaching the semi-finals and emphasized the team’s preparation:

“We are mentally, physically, and tactically prepared to face one of the best teams in Africa. All the players understand the importance of this match to qualify for the final and come closer to winning the continental title.”

He concluded:

“We have been waiting for this moment for a long time, and we have worked hard to deliver a great match.”