Before Morocco–Zambia: Walid Regragui prepares the match of truth

The atmosphere was one of work and concentration in Maâmora. Aware that they no longer have the right to make a mistake after the mixed performance against Mali, the Atlas Lions have fine-tuned their strategy to lock down the first place in Group A. While the squad was almost complete, one absence was noticed during the collective exercises: that of Romain Saïss. The central defender and captain of the national team limited himself to individual exercises, following a specific recovery protocol. A situation that does not seem to alarm the staff, but which calls for caution before the kick-off.

The pressure is palpable, and the presence of Fouzi Lekjaa on the sidelines is proof of this. The president of the FRMF came to supervise the final adjustments, testifying to the crucial importance of this match for the institution and for the morale of the country. It must be said that the stakes go beyond the simple three points: it is a matter of reassuring a Moroccan public who have become anxious and of avoiding a forced move out of Rabat for the rest of the tournament.

On the field, Walid Regragui will have to decide on the Hakimi case. Although declared fit, the Parisian full-back could be managed with caution depending on the tactical scenario favored. In any case, this Monday evening at the Moulay Abdellah complex, the Lions will have only one watchword: victory and style, to transform the doubts into hope of glory.