CAN Morocco 2025: Morocco Anticipates a Tough Match Against Mali

CAN Morocco 2025: Morocco Expects a Tough Match Against Mali
The upcoming match between the Moroccan national team and their Malian counterparts, part of the second round of Group A at the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN Morocco 2025), is set to be a challenging one, especially as Mali is under pressure to secure a victory, stated Moroccan international player Oussama Targhalline on Thursday.
In a statement to the press following the latest training session at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmoura, Targhalline emphasized that the difficulty of this encounter lies in Mali’s determination to improve upon their opening match which ended in a draw against Zambia (1-1). He also noted that every team facing Morocco tends to deliver their best performance.
Analysis and Corrections Following the Match Against the Comoros
The Feyenoord midfielder from the Netherlands assured that the players are fully aware of the extent of their mission. He specified that the performance of the Atlas Lions in their opening match against the Comoros underwent in-depth analysis to identify and correct any shortcomings.
Victory is the Goal for the Atlas Lions
Meanwhile, Youssef Belammari claimed that all matches in the CAN are played with great intensity, highlighting that the main objective of the national team is to secure a win against Mali. The left-back from Raja Casablanca added that the team approaches the competition on a match-by-match basis and possesses the necessary elements to seal their place in the next round.
On a personal level, Belammari stated that he has remained focused since the tournament began, even while being among the substitutes, expressing his readiness to give his best if the opportunity arises.
Physical Condition: A Key Factor
For his part, Chemsddine Talbi asserted that physical condition will play a crucial role in such encounters, noting that the Malian team practices attractive football without limiting themselves to defensive play.
The Sunderland player from England also emphasized that Morocco’s first victory allowed the team to relieve some pressure, adding that the Atlas Lions have the necessary solutions and will gain momentum as the matches progress.
Match Schedule for Day 2
Morocco will face Mali this Friday at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat beginning at 21:00 (GMT+1). On the same day in Group A, Zambia will play against the Comoros at 18:30 (GMT+1) at the Mohammed V Complex in Casablanca.




