Morocco 4-0 Uganda: Regragui hails Brahim Diaz’s "best match

The coach said he was "pleased with the efficiency and the state of mind" displayed against Uganda. He noted that the Atlas Lions had managed to score without conceding a clear chance, describing the victory as the result of a team that "does not doubt" and comes with "confidence" before the AFCON.

The analysis of the match showed the offensive diversity of the group. After an own goal by Ugandan Achayi Herbert in the 4th minute, the goals followed one another through Ismaël Saibari (33rd), Soufiane Rahimi (79th, pen.) and Bilal El Khannouss (88th). Regragui particularly praised Brahim Diaz, saying he had "played his best match today" by being "very efficient" and "running a lot". He also assured that he would always protect his players, even those who do not stand out.

Confidence and the title as the objective

Walid Regragui emphasized the challenge of the continental tournament, which Morocco has not hosted since 1988. He stated that the pressure was positive, recalling that "everyone dreams of playing the AFCON at home". With the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announcing that all tickets for Morocco’s matches had already been sold out, the popular enthusiasm is total.

The coach set the objective clearly: "We will have to win the AFCON. [...] We have built something after the 2023 AFCON. [...] What interests me is to win the AFCON and go down in history." He stressed that the team had progressed and rejuvenated its squad while maintaining certainties.

Expressed support for Achraf Hakimi

When asked about the African Ballon d’Or, the coach expressed his support for Achraf Hakimi, in competition with Egyptian Mohamed Salah and Nigerian Victor Osimhen. "Logically, there is no world where Achraf does not win it," he said, adding that for him and the people, it would be the "Ballon d’Or of the heart". He recalled that Mustapha Hadji was the last Moroccan to have won it, and that Yassine Bounou also deserved it after the 2022 World Cup.

Finally, regarding the injuries of Achraf Hakimi and Nayef Aguerd, Walid Regragui expressed his confidence in the solidity of his defensive line. He praised the experience of players like Romain Saïss and Jawad El Yamiq, noting that they instill confidence in the young players and have managed to keep the goal intact despite the absences.