He cried like a child": Ounahi’s drama spoils the qualification of the Lions

It was a tricky match, and not just because of the opponent. While the Atlas Lions ultimately prevailed, the atmosphere was not one of total celebration. Walid Regragui revealed after the match that the team had suffered a real blow even before kick-off, which partly explains the laborious first half of his men.

The "technical waste" and lack of rhythm observed in the first half take on a completely different meaning in light of the coach’s revelations. The group was in shock over Azzedine Ounahi’s injury, which occurred before the match.

"Azzedine is suffering from a calf tear. His scar has reopened, which will prevent him from continuing the AFCON. He will be unavailable for six to eight weeks," Regragui announced. The loss of this technical leader weighed heavily on the morale of the troops as they took to the field: "He cried like a child, and that inevitably put the players on edge. It’s a real shock for us."

A victory through mental strength and pragmatism

Despite this difficult context and the "weight of the legacy of the round of 16," the Lions were able to react. After a first half marked by poor choices, the second half was "more in line with the team’s standards."

Walid Regragui now assumes an approach focused on pure efficiency: "You know me, if I have to close the game to win the AFCON, I’ll do it. We’re not going to create 15,000 chances per game. In the quarter-finals or semi-finals, the most efficient teams win the trophies."

Orphaned by Ounahi, the Lions were able to count on their other leaders. Achraf Hakimi was praised by his coach for "assuming his responsibilities" and making "extraordinary things."

For his part, Brahim Diaz continues to establish himself as the offensive metronome. Designated Man of the Match, the Real Madrid player has scored for the fourth consecutive time. "Brahim wants to go down in history with this team, he wants to win the AFCON," the coach points out, satisfied to see the group help the star to give his best version.