“We know Tanzania very well. The match will be difficult. We hope to win to reach the quarter-finals,” Regragui said at the press conference ahead of the match scheduled for Sunday (5:00 pm) at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
“For Morocco, staff and players, this is the AFCON of humility,” the national coach stressed. “We must be humble and keep our feet on the ground. Everyone considers us favourites,” he noted, pointing out that Tanzania is a team that grows during the competition.
“Tanzania have a developed domestic league, with good local players who are used to playing in Africa. We will play this match with our resources and our strength so that they do not cause a surprise. Anything is possible in this match,” he said.
According to the national coach, “Morocco are a team that press all the time and the statistics are there to support this.”
On another note, Regragui specified that the Moroccan team’s game does not depend solely on Brahim Diaz’s form, but that “danger can come from everywhere.”
“Brahim Diaz is effective. He needed time to adapt to African football, which is completely different from Europe. What matters is that danger comes from everywhere. The collective is the most important. When Brahim is effective, it benefits the team,” he stressed.
Speaking about Achraf Hakimi, the national coach said he has always been clear about his physical condition. “The objective was to allow him to build up his strength and bring him into the competition at the right time. Physically, he is ready and fit to play tomorrow’s match,” he said.
Regarding Hamza Igamane, he said his condition is improving well. “We are on schedule. We are meeting our challenges, whether for Achraf or for Hamza. The medical staff have worked day and night so that Hamza is ready,” he noted.
He also said that the journey of Ayoub El Kaabi, who has scored three goals at this AFCON, is “a model for young players.” “He never gave up. Hard work and seriousness are fundamental qualities. He knows where he wants to go. Ayoub is one of those players who make young Moroccans dream,” he added.
The national team finished top of Group A with 7 points, from two wins against Comoros (2-0) and Zambia (3-0) and a draw against Mali (1-1). Tanzania qualified as one of the best third-placed teams (Group C, 2 points) after a defeat to Nigeria (1-2) and two draws against Uganda (1-1) and Tunisia (1-1).
Editorial team/le7tv