Morocco Faces Tanzania in Crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifier Opener

"We know it will be a very difficult match, but we have prepared well and are as motivated as usual. We are coming here to get a good result. It’s the start of the qualifiers and we know the road is long and starts with tomorrow’s match. We are aware of the responsibility that falls on us and know the importance of this match," said Walid Regragui, in a press conference, this Monday, November 20, 2023 at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam. This match will mark the entry of the Atlas Lions into the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

"We have a lot of respect for Tanzania, we know they are highly motivated. It’s the match of the year for them. Especially since they are playing in front of their home crowd and the victory against Niger has boosted their confidence. Qualification for the World Cup is a real marathon and we respect all the teams," added the former coach of Wydad Casablanca. Alongside the coach, Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi believes that "all matches are difficult from now on, whether in Africa or Europe. Now we are focused on this match."

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After the withdrawal of Eritrea (1st day), forfeiting for these qualifiers, the Atlas Lions continued their preparation at the Mohammed VI Complex in Maamora. "All the teams had matches to play so we couldn’t schedule a friendly match. Was it good or less good for us? We’ll see tomorrow. We’ve stayed focused on tomorrow’s match to be at our best level. We took the opportunity to better prepare for tomorrow," the coach continued.

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