Expected to be one of the favorites at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco endured a heavy and disappointing elimination that continues to weigh on the team. Months after a change in coaching staff, the Atlas Lions are still grappling with the aftermath of that defeat as they attempt to rebuild and regain momentum.
Appointed as Morocco’s head coach just a few months prior, Vahid Halilhodzic has faced the challenge of reversing the team’s poor form. Speaking on the program L’Club on Medi1 Radio, the former Algeria coach reflected on the difficulties his squad has encountered. “Qualifying for the World Cup, 20 years later, created a certain euphoria. But afterwards, there is a drop in performance. That is what happened to the Algerian national team after the 2014 World Cup. The failure at the AFCON was almost predictable,” he explained, acknowledging the inevitability of the setback given the team’s circumstances.
Halilhodzic is aware of the frustration felt by Moroccan fans and the growing gap between supporters and the national team. To regain confidence, he stressed the importance of focusing on work and results. “It’s certainly not pleasant. There’s a growing disenchantment between the fans and the national team. Today, we need to shut our mouths and get to work,” he concluded.
Signs of progress are beginning to emerge under Halilhodzic’s guidance. Morocco displayed a strong response in their most recent match, defeating Burundi 3-0, suggesting that the team is gradually finding its rhythm and working toward restoring confidence and support ahead of future competitions.
