Walid Regragui takes a risky bet

The bet is bold. While the official list is now known, the case of Hamza Igamane is crystallizing attention. Currently injured with LOSC, the striker is among the reserves alongside Youssef Belammari. Regragui fully assumes this medical uncertainty, comparing the situation to that of key players like Hakimi: "For Hamza, it’s an injury whose duration can evolve. We took the risk... If we can have him available for just one match or a few minutes, we take this risk and I assume it." This management of the infirmary is part of a desire to keep a small group of 26 units to preserve the balance of the locker room.

This search for balance also justifies the selective integration of youth to the detriment of a massive call-up of the U20s. The coach recalls that the next generation is already integrated: Ben Seghir, Talbi and Aït Boudlal, who could have played in the lower category, are part of the A project. "We are preparing the future but also the present," insists the technician, defending a team building process started at the end of the 2023 CAN.

To carry out this project, Regragui has chosen to lock down his communication upstream. No press conference accompanied this announcement on Thursday, a "personal decision" that contrasts with the usual practices, although press points are planned every two days during the tournament. The coach relies on his accounting record - 19 wins and one draw - to legitimize his choices before the kick-off scheduled for December 21 in Rabat against the Comoros. The objective is unique and non-negotiable: final victory.