Morocco Storms into 2026 World Cup: Regragui Eyes AFCON Glory After 5-0 Triumph

– bySaid · 2 min read
Morocco Storms into 2026 World Cup: Regragui Eyes AFCON Glory After 5-0 Triumph

After Morocco’s convincing 5-0 victory over Niger, which secured their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, national team coach Walid Regragui expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. He highlighted that he had corrected the mistakes from the previous international break and praised the control exercised by his players.

"We played the match well and tried to control the pace of the game from the start," he said in a press conference. "It’s true that the expulsion of our opponent made things easier for us, but I noticed a certain relaxation, which is natural at the beginning of the sports season." He added that the competitiveness within the group was a positive sign in the absence of several injured players, insisting on the need to "strengthen the depth of the team."

The coach immediately looked ahead to the next match, scheduled for this Monday in Zambia, which he anticipates will be "difficult." "We are considering rotating the team and integrating new players, but with caution and without taking risks," he specified, indicating that the objective remains the victory despite a "different composition" to preserve the physical condition of the players.

Walid Regragui took the opportunity to express particular support for Achraf Hakimi, whom he considers deserving of the "African and international Ballon d’Or" for his commitment. He also described the Moroccan supporters as the "best in the world," asking them for "patience and support until the last minute."

"Congratulations to the players, six consecutive matches and six victories," he summarized, delighted with the qualification. The focus now turns to the Africa Cup of Nations, with the next qualifying match to be played against Tanzania.