Regragui admits Morocco pressure ahead of AFCON kick-off

Despite playing on home soil and heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as favourites, Morocco national team head coach Walid Regragui they face additional pressure to succeed when the tournament gets underway on December 12.

The Atlas Lions will be played in Group A of the AFCON alongside Comoros, Mali, and Zambia. Heading into the 35th edition of the AFCON, the North African side have not lost at home since the 3-2 friendly defeat to Gabon in 2019.

Morocco have further not lost a competitive fixture on their own patch since a 2-0 defeat by Cameroon in a World Cup qualifier in 2009. Despite the strong record at home, Regragui admits they will be under pressure but will not hide from it.

Morocco will accept pressure with pride

“Of course, there is additional pressure, but we’re not going to hide from it,” Regragui said as quoted by Flashscore. “This pressure is not just on me as the coach but also on the players. It’s a big responsibility, but it’s one we accept with pride.

“There are (Morocco) supporters who have dreamed of this trophy staying in Morocco since 1976.

“The sacred union between the team and the fans will be crucial. This pressure must be positive, and even if it becomes negative, we’ll handle it. We are highly motivated and have all the conditions to have a great tournament.”

Discussing Morocco’s group opponents, Regragui said: “We respect all the teams in our group. Everyone dreams of winning, but with the talent and motivation in this squad, we are confident of making our supporters proud.”

Morocco will open their campaign against Comoros at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday, December 21, before taking on Mali in matchday two at the same venue on Friday, December 26.

Their final group fixture will be against Zambia at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Monday, December 29.