Morocco Secures Late Victory in Africa Cup of Nations Opener, Coach Renard Praises Fan Support

It was an extremely difficult match and Morocco’s victory is due to a Namibian player who scored an own goal in the final moments of the match. Indeed, it was in the 89th minute that Itamunua Keimuine offered victory to his opponents, the "Atlas Lions". A first success for Morocco, therefore, in its first group stage match, in this 2019 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN).

On Instagram, Hervé Renard took the time to thank the supporters, writing in French and English these words: "Thank you to the Moroccan public for their support during this important victory against Namibia". These words from the coach were accompanied by a photo that visibly moved him, showing a child crying with joy, carried by a Moroccan supporter.

Hervé Renard was also spotted on Monday, June 24, the day after the victory mentioned, during the match between Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa. He was taking notes. A sign that he takes his opponents very seriously. Côte d’Ivoire won this match, scoring the only goal.

It should be noted that since January 21, 2008, Morocco had not won an opening match in the CAN. A curse broken, then. With the same team. On the January 21 mentioned, Morocco had beaten Namibia but with a resounding score of 5 to 1.