Latest news with #Regragui
Morocco World
22-06-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
Walid Regragui Joins World's Top Coaches at RFEF Congress in Madrid
Rabat– Morocco's national team head coach, Walid Regragui took part in the first International Coaches Congress organized by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) on June 20–21 in Madrid. The high-profile event brought together over 550 coaches from across the globe and featured around 20 distinguished speakers, including Regragui, alongside representatives from FIFA and UEFA. Regragui's participation highlights the growing international recognition of Moroccan coaching talent and reflects Morocco's commitment to fostering top-level sports leadership and development. During a panel discussion on the responsibilities and challenges of coaching, Regragui spoke candidly about the immense expectations that come with leading a national team in a country where football is deeply cherished. 'We carry a great responsibility because the passion for football is immense. The entire country is behind us,' he said, emphasizing the strong emotional connection between the Moroccan national team and its supporters. As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) draws near, Regragui finds himself under increasing pressure. Morocco will host the continental tournament, and Regragui has publicly pledged to win the title on home soil. Despite the high expectations, the coach remains confident in both his leadership and the team's abilities. Reaffirming his dedication during the Madrid Congress, he stated: 'If there's someone better than me, I'll step aside. I'm the first fan of this team. I want to see Hakimi lift the trophy.' His humble and determined words resonated with fans and players alike, setting the tone for one of the most anticipated chapters in Moroccan football history. The congress also featured several prominent football figures, including Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente, former Ecuador manager Gustavo Alfaro, and renowned Uruguayan fitness coach Profe Ortega. Key topics discussed included continuous coaching education, the evolving challenges of technical management, and the growing importance of a human-centered approach in coaching. According to the RFEF, the congress aims to emphasize the strategic role of coaches and promote education and training as fundamental drivers for the advancement of modern football. Tags: 2025 afconrfefWalid Regragui
Morocco World
10-06-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
Morocco Finish Season With Narrow Win Over Benin – But Performance Raises Eyebrows
Morocco wrapped up their international season with a 1-0 victory over Benin on Monday night in Fez. Ayoub El Kaabi's acrobatic strike just before half-time sealed the win, but the overall performance left fans wanting more. The match followed a familiar script. Just like against Tunisia, Morocco struggled to break down a low defensive block. Benin were organised and cautious, content to sit deep and frustrate the hosts. Morocco, after fielding a much-changed side, failed to find rhythm or urgency for large spells of the game. Walid Regragui handed minutes to several fringe players, including Zakaria El Ouahdi and Osama Sahraoui, while Soufiane Rahimi partnered El Kaabi up front. But the changes didn't quite click. The midfield lacked drive, the wings were quiet, and there was little in the way of quick, decisive build-up. El Kaabi, however, made his moment count. On the stroke of half-time, he connected with a long ball from Adam Masina inside the box and finished with a spectacular bicycle kick. It was the highlight of the match. Ayoub El Kaabi scored the first goal for Morocco with a spectacular bicycle kick. Regragui tried to liven things up in the second half by bringing on Bilal El Khannouss and Osama Targhalline, but the pace never really picked up. Hakimi also came on late in the game, but the crowd in Fez, who had packed the stadium for a second time in a week, were left wanting more. Despite the lacklustre display, the win was Morocco's 12th in a row under Regragui – a new record. But the coach knows there's work to do. Speaking after the match, Regragui said: 'It's never easy to make lots of changes and expect full chemistry. We saw that the understanding between players wasn't at the usual level. But these friendlies are for testing things. We tried out new players and new combinations. What matters is the win.' Asked about criticism over his methods and persona, he joked: 'In September, I might show up with a hair transplant and clean shave, and pretend I'm a new coach. Then we'll win the Africa Cup.' Walid Regragui says that squad changes impacted the rhythm of the game. Striker Youssef En-Nesyri praised the squad's effort: 'The match was tough, but the win gives us confidence. We respect every opponent and take every game seriously. These matches help us grow.' Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou added: 'It's always hard at the end of the season. The players are exhausted, so it's normal that we're not at our best. But we got the result, and that's what counts.' Morocco now shift focus to the World Cup qualifiers next September. Regragui will hope to have a full house on the next international break after missing some key names during the last two friendlies, including Brahim Diaz, Abde Ezzalzouli, Nayef Aguerd, and Roman Saiss. Tags: Achraf HakimiAtlas LionsBeninBrahim DiazMoroccoTunisiaWalid Regragui
Morocco World
07-06-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
‘The Goal Is AFCON': Regragui Praises Team's Depth After Latest Victory
Rabat – Morocco's national team coach, Walid Regragui, has hailed the Atlas Lions' impressive 2-0 victory over Tunisia at Fez Stadium, calling it a crucial step in their preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Regragui highlighted the significance of winning the high-stakes Maghreb derby, especially considering the absence of several key players. 'I am very happy with the victory, despite the difficulties we endured,' he said. 'We must not forget that we were missing several key players , yet the win came in a way reminiscent of Tunisia's style — from a corner kick and a last-minute counterattack, which is how Tunisia has historically secured victories in past matches.' Regragui also praised the contribution of the substitutes, emphasizing the depth of Morocco's bench. 'The strength of our bench made a decisive difference, which is very encouraging for me, as our goal for the Africa Cup of Nations demands a squad rich in quality.' Addressing the notable absences of Brahim Diaz , Nayef Aguerd, and Noussair Mazraoui, Regragui offered insight into the precautionary approach taken with Diaz. 'We have a strong and positive relationship with Real Madrid, and we didn't want to risk Brahim by having him play against Tunisia, especially considering the potential for unwanted complications, as the club depends on him for the FIFA Club World Cup,' Regragui explained. The coach went on to reassure fans about Diaz's recovery progress, stressing: 'Thankfully, Brahim is recovering and improving, and I am happy to have him with us despite his injury. His club is closely monitoring and supporting him. This flexibility on our part will keep our relationship with Real Madrid strong.' Read also: Morocco Edges Tunisia 2-0 in Friendly Game He further noted the case of Abdel Samad El Yezdouli, who was managed carefully after his participation in a European final, clarifying the priority is not merely player appearances in friendlies but ensuring 'their full readiness for the future.' Expressing gratitude toward the fans, Regragui thanked the supporters in Fez for their passionate backing. He also highlighted the internal competition among players, which he believes strengthens the team. 'Sanad and El Kaabi have pushed En-Nesyri to perform better, and this competition benefits the Moroccan national team.' Yesterday's win over Tunisia extends Morocco's winning streak to 12 matches under Regragui's leadership. Of his tactical approach, Regragui explained that his staff prepared the team thoroughly, especially focusing on set pieces, a critical area they emphasized during training. Both teams came out eager to impose their style, resulting in an intense and balanced first half. Despite some visible fatigue among players after a long and exhausting season, Regragui expressed satisfaction with their effort, stressing that the positive result remains paramount as Morocco continues its preparations for official and friendly matches in 2025. The Moroccan national team is set to play their second friendly match this Monday, June 9, at Fez Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM (GMT+1). Tags: Achraf HakimiMorocco national teammorocco tunisiaWalid Regragui
Morocco World
06-06-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
Morocco v Tunisia: Atlas Lions Continue AFCON Preparations with North African Derby
Morocco take on Tunisia in Fès on Friday night as Walid Regragui's side step up their preparations for next year's Africa Cup of Nations on home soil. Kick-off set for 9 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1) at the Grand Stade de Fès, and fans can catch the action live on Arriyadia HD. The match may be classed as a friendly, but there is nothing relaxed about the mood in either camp. Expectations are high, and the Atlas Lions will want to put in a convincing performance in front of their fans. Regragui is without two key attacking players, with Brahim Diaz and Abde Ezzalzouli ruled out through injury. Their absence could open the door for younger names like Bilal El Khannouss, Elias Ben Seghir and Amir Richardson to stake a claim. Morocco's recent displays have raised questions about their attacking rhythm and overall intensity. After a flat showing in the last international window, the pressure is on to show signs of improvement, particularly with the AFCON now less than six months away. The hosts are likely to stick with a core of experienced players, including Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd and Youssef En-Nesyri. However, there is growing demand for more variety in midfield and greater fluidity in the final third. Morocco (expected XI) : Bounou; Hakimi, Yamiq, Massina, Belammari; Amrabat, Ounahi, El Khannouss; Rahimi, En-Nesyri, Ben Seghir. Prediction : Morocco 2-0 Tunisia – tight contest, but home advantage and Morocco's squad quality should make the difference. Tags: Achraf HakimiMoroccoTunisiaWalid Regraguiyassine bounou
Ya Biladi
27-05-2025
- Sport
- Ya Biladi
«You won't find anyone better than me to win AFCON», says Morocco coach Regragui
Estimated read time: 2' Today, national team coach Walid Regragui expressed full confidence in his ability to lead Morocco to victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco at the end of the year. Speaking at a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maamoura, where he announced the squad for upcoming friendly matches against Tunisia (June 6) and Benin (June 9) at the Grand Stadium of Fez, Regragui addressed rumors about his potential departure from the national team. He declared, «You won't find anyone better than me to win the Africa Cup of Nations». «If anyone thinks Guardiola, Ancelotti, or Klopp can win it, they should go sit down with them and plead their case. I'm capable of doing it. No one will do it better than me». Regragui described the two friendly matches as crucial tests to evaluate players ahead of the tournament. «Since the Africa Cup of Nations will see us facing African teams, choosing Tunisia and Benin is important», he explained, noting that both teams have strong defenses that will help Morocco prepare effectively. On the absence of some players, he said, «We're not here to chase or seduce anyone. Players must earn the right to represent Morocco». He added, «Our mission is to attract the best players who choose to represent Morocco with their hearts. If a player isn't called up, it means they haven't secured their place yet or have other options». He urged fans to support the players who have accepted the call to wear the national jersey. Regarding the missing defenders, Regragui clarified, «About 90 percent of the defenders are out due to injury, but this gives us the chance to test new players and confirm our choices after these two matches». He also noted that «these absences just happened to coincide with the friendly match period». He reaffirmed, «We have a project to build a strong defense, which is why I'm experimenting with different players to find the best combination». Regragui stressed that while «the team's core remains stable, changes depend on player form, injuries, and decisions by the technical staff». He concluded, «Winning the Africa Cup of Nations requires talented players, passionate fans, and above all, a winning mentality that must be deeply embedded in the team—it's essential for success».
