Morocco Seeks World Cup Qualification in Historic ’Made in Morocco’ Stadium Showdown

Despite the favorite status of his team, coach Walid Regragui advocated caution in the press conference, based on the experience of the first leg match won with difficulty (2-1). "We expect the same type of match," he warned, recalling the tactical solidity of the Nigerien team led by his former coach, Badou Zaki. The coach also addressed the "uncertainties" of his own defense since the departure of former captain Romain Saïss, while expressing "confidence" in his ability to find the right pairing alongside Nayef Aguerd.

To meet these challenges, the group of 27 called-up players spent the week in a training camp at the Mohammed VI complex in Maâmora. This gathering was an opportunity to integrate new faces, such as striker Hamza Igamane and goalkeeper Mehdi Lahrar, who is celebrating his first call-up to the senior team.

Beyond the purely sporting aspects, Walid Regragui emphasized the importance of the setting of the match. "I hope we will offer a beautiful spectacle in this brand new stadium," he said, paying tribute to the "Moroccan workers who have done an extraordinary job." The coach concluded by describing the stadium as "Made in Morocco," a setting worthy of the stakes of the evening.

What time and on which channels to watch the match live?

The match is scheduled for this Friday, September 5th at 8pm, Moroccan time, and 9pm in France and Belgium. Several channels are broadcasting this match live. These are Al Aoula and Arryadia.