Morocco Edges Zambia 2-1 in World Cup Qualifier Amid Ziyech Substitution Drama

At the post-match press conference, national coach Walid Regragui sought to calm the situation and explain his choice: "I see that it’s good to see a player who doesn’t accept being substituted. But it’s me who makes the decisions. I know Hakim Ziyech, he’s a competitor, him and Youssef En-Nesyri. My job is to protect the players."

"Ziyech was training with the national team with an injury and I know very well that we have a match next Tuesday," added the Moroccan coach, defending his player.

Far from wanting to criticize his player, Regragui praised the state of mind of Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri, who was also substituted during the match: "Youssef also took a blow during the match. As I said, when I see that I have other options, I have to use them. But I see Ziyech and En-Nesyri’s reaction in a good light, because they wanted to play and the most important thing is that they know very well that the group comes before everything."

The Atlas Lions will face Congo on Tuesday, June 11 at the Grand Stade d’Agadir, with the aim of securing another victory and moving closer to qualification for the 2026 World Cup.