Walid Regragui after the victory against Niger: “No one has a guaranteed place”

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original written in French by Omar Chraibi for Pan-Africa Football

Morocco suffered but won against Niger (2-1) in Oujda in a more difficult match than expected. Despite the victory, Walid Regragui didn't hide his frustration with his players' performance, particularly in the first half. With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaching, the Atlas Lions coach sent a clear message: a place in the national team must be earned, and no one is untouchable.

"We took a slap that woke us up."

After the final whistle, Regragui was direct and straightforward. While the victory was there, the content left something to be desired. "The main thing is to take the three points. But let's be honest: we wasted 45 minutes in the first half. Niger surprised us with a goal early in the second half, and it was a slap that woke us up."

The coach doesn't downplay Niger's performance, but rather highlights his team's lack of reaction before falling behind. This lapse could prove costly against more formidable opponents.

But even more than the content of the match, it was the attitude of certain players that seemed to irritate Regragui. He insisted on pointing out that the national team is a constantly competitive arena: "There are players who think their place is guaranteed, but that's not the case. The competition is fierce, and those who don't give 100% risk being dropped from the squad."

A warning that speaks volumes about the coach's high standards, refusing to see his squad sink into complacency.

"These scenarios keep us humble."

Beyond the match itself, Regragui prefers to view this type of confrontation as a lesson ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations. "It's good to experience these kinds of scenarios before the African Cup of Nations. It reminds us that no match will be easy and that we must remain humble."

A clear-eyed statement that reflects the demands of the highest level.

A tribute to Badou Zaki and the Oujda fans

While Regragui was critical of his team, he also paid tribute to two key elements of the evening: Badou Zaki's excellent coaching performance with Niger and the tremendous support of the Oujda crowd.

"I know Badou Zaki well; he's a coach I respect enormously. He's built a defensively solid team, capable of causing problems for any team."

As for the fans, their enthusiasm impressed the coach: "The Oujda crowd was incredible. They supported us even in difficult moments. Perhaps in another city, the atmosphere wouldn't have been as intense."

A warning before the AFCON

Despite the victory, this match against Niger is a wake-up call for the Atlas Lions. With the 2025 AFCON just a few months away, Regragui wants to see a team that is committed, focused, and aware of the expectations placed on it.

With the pressure of a home tournament, Moroccan players will have to prove they have learned their lesson.