Morocco Aims for the Quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with Humility
Saïss: The Atlas Lions’ Captain Focuses on Quarter-Final Aspirations
Ghanem Saïss, the captain of the Atlas Lions, stated on Saturday that the Moroccan national team remains fully focused on its goal of reaching the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He emphasized the importance of avoiding past mistakes, particularly those stemming from overconfidence.
In a press conference ahead of the Morocco-Tanzania clash, set to take place on Sunday at 5:00 PM at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Saïss noted, “A new competition begins. The match against Tanzania is crucial. We must approach it one game at a time, with humility and concentration.”
Having been sidelined due to an injury sustained during the opening group stage match against the Comoros, the defender warned against any form of complacency: “We must neither underestimate our opponent nor repeat past mistakes. We are ready and well-prepared. The key is to deliver a great performance and secure our ticket to the quarter-finals.”
On a personal level, Saïss expressed confidence regarding his rehabilitation progress: “Getting injured at this stage of a competition is challenging, but I am working intensively, both physically and mentally. The most important thing is to be 100% fit to help the team if needed. Whether I play or not, the priority remains the collective performance.”
He also highlighted the crucial support of the Moroccan fans, referring to them as an “extra force,” while reminding his teammates that their status as favorites should not alter the group’s mindset: “We know that expectations are high, but we must stay focused on ourselves, play with humility, and respect our style of play.”
These remarks reflect an increased competitive maturity within the Moroccan dressing room, clearly oriented towards continuing their positive momentum and confirming their continental ambitions.
