Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui has received a timely boost as the Atlas Lions prepare to face Gabon and Lesotho in their final matches for the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. Set for November 15 and 18 on home turf, the upcoming games mark the fifth and sixth rounds of the qualification campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Regragui is expected to announce a fresh squad list, with notable updates reflecting both returns and absences.
While Morocco will miss some key players due to injuries, Regragui’s lineup will also benefit from the addition of high-performing reinforcements who have been making an impact in Europe’s top leagues.
The positive developments have injected optimism into the Moroccan camp as they gear up to secure a strong position heading into AFCON 2025.
Unfortunately for Morocco, the squad will be without a few pivotal players who contributed to the team’s recent successes.
One of the most significant losses is Bayer Leverkusen forward Amine Adli, who recently sustained a leg fracture.
The 23-year-old forward, known for his agility and goal-scoring prowess, will require surgery and is not expected back until January 2025.
His absence leaves a gap in the attacking lineup that Regragui must work to fill.
Another player set to miss out is Youssef Belammari of Raja Club Athletic.
The defender suffered a double fracture, ruling him out of action for the coming weeks.
Belammari’s physical presence and defensive capabilities will be missed, adding to Regragui’s challenge of maintaining the defensive strength Morocco has shown in recent matches.
Despite these setbacks, Morocco will welcome back some notable players who bring both experience and form to the squad.
Among the returning stars is Noussair Mazraoui, who has been in impressive form with Manchester United.
Mazraoui, known for his versatility in both defensive and midfield roles, recently earned a “Player of the Match” award in United’s clash against Chelsea, highlighting his ability to make a difference on the field.
His return is expected to add both stability and creativity to Morocco’s lineup.
In addition to Mazraoui, Regragui can also count on players like Yahya Attiat-Allah, Brahim Díaz, and Amir Richardson.
Brahim Díaz, in particular, has become an influential figure for Morocco since committing to the national team.
The Real Madrid winger’s skillful play and attacking mindset have quickly endeared him to Moroccan fans, and his presence is expected to provide a much-needed edge in the team’s forward lineup.
Currently well-positioned in their group, the Atlas Lions are determined to secure their place in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
Playing on home soil, Morocco has a strong advantage, with fans eagerly anticipating a show of skill and strength from Regragui’s squad.
The matches against Gabon and Lesotho are essential for maintaining their top spot and ensuring a confident entry into the AFCON 2025 tournament.
Coach Regragui’s task will be to balance the squad with a mix of seasoned international players and emerging talents, allowing the team to adapt seamlessly despite the missing players.
With the return of in-form stars like Mazraoui and the continued contributions of players such as Attiat-Allah and Díaz, Morocco remains a formidable force as they aim to close out the qualifiers on a high note.
Moroccan fans are keenly awaiting Regragui’s squad announcement and the prospect of witnessing their team solidify its standing in African football.
Although missing key players like Adli and Belammari presents a challenge, the return of several high-impact players brings confidence to the squad as they enter these final qualifying rounds.
With two crucial games ahead, Morocco’s AFCON 2025 journey remains full of promise, as Regragui’s team looks to overcome recent challenges and set their sights on continental success.
