CHAN: Morocco ready to sacrifice everything on the pitch against Madagascar – Sektioui

Morocco coach Tarik Sektioui stayed positive heading into their final of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) against surprise package Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday.

For the Atlas Lions, victory would confirm their dominance in the CHAN, while for Madagascar, it would mark an extraordinary breakthrough as the first Southern African and island nation to lift the trophy.

“Each match presents a different scenario with its details that make the difference. We are very confident about the outcome of this match,” said Sektioui at Friday’s press conference as quoted by CAFOnline.com.

“To win this final, you have to be 100 percent ready at every level. Respecting your opponent means respecting yourself, but we have the means to succeed and win the final.”

He added: “The Moroccan team is the only one that has travelled to the three host countries of this edition, but this gives us the will and determination to overcome the difficulties and win the title.”

Morocco midfielder Salaheddine Rahouli, who spoke on behalf of the players, echoed his coach’s confidence. “We prepared well for the match against Madagascar. We came to CHAN to play the final and we are fully determined to bring the trophy back to Morocco.

“Winning this title for the third time is a source of pride for all of us. We are aware of the responsibility we bear and we hope to offer this third title to the Moroccan supporters.”

He concluded: “When we prepare for a final to represent our country, all difficulties disappear. A final is about being crowned winner or not. We are ready to sacrifice everything on the pitch to honour Moroccan football.”

This will be the first ever CAF senior international final for Madagascar, who became the 13th nation to reach this stage after edging Sudan 1-0 in the semi-final.

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