Morocco head coach Walid Regragui says years of meticulous preparation have gone into the host nation’s bid to lift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy.
The Atlas Lions, who are staging the 35th edition of Africa’s flagship tournament, begin their campaign against Comoros at the iconic Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah, with expectations high among home supporters.
Addressing the media ahead of the opener, Regragui stressed that success will depend as much on mentality as it does on talent.
“We have been working for two years. It will be a big day at home. Our objective has always been to win the AFCON and to give everything. Our supporters are with us,” he said.
The Moroccan coach also provided an update on Achraf Hakimi, who is nursing an injury picked up during a match against Bayern Munich, suggesting a cautious approach to his involvement.
“He may start, or he may not. Every match is important. We will have to manage emotions and play with confidence and humility.”
Morocco will be eager to make a strong start on home soil before turning their attention to Mali in their second Group A fixture and concluding the group stage against Zambia.
