Morocco will win 2025 AFCON – Mohamed Ouahbi declares

Morocco U-20 coach Mohamed Ouahbi has expressed strong confidence that the Atlas Lions will emerge victorious at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking on Radio Mars, Ouahbi emphasized that unity, self-belief, and trust in senior coach Walid Regragui will be central to Morocco’s success on home soil.

Having guided Morocco’s U-20 side to the U-20 World Cup title and played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of talent, Ouahbi believes the national team possesses both the depth and quality needed to claim continental glory.

Addressing concerns over Morocco’s defensive options, he downplayed any worries, insisting competition for places is healthy and that multiple players are ready to step up.

“The fact that we don’t have certainties in central defense does not mean we lack quality. Apart from Nayef, the level is comparable. I am convinced we will have a solid partnership,” Ouahbi said.

“What matters is believing in ourselves, in the staff, in Walid, and in the team. We will do it, Insha’Allah.”

Ouahbi repeatedly returned to the theme of unity, drawing on lessons from his three years with the U-20s. He stressed that success hinges on team spirit as much as individual talent.

“Is everything perfect? No. With the U-20s, it wasn’t perfect either. What is essential is the sacred union,” he said.

He also lauded the senior squad’s attitude, noting their consistency and hunger for victory, regardless of the opponent.

“What more do you want the players to show? They’ve strung together 16 consecutive victories. Even in smaller matches, the Hakimis want to play.”

For Ouahbi, the professionalism of the coaching staff under Regragui, and their connection with the fans during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is a source of optimism. He hopes Morocco can replicate that energy at AFCON 2025.

“We have a competent coach who made us vibrate in Qatar, a staff I see working every day… We are going to win this AFCON, Insha’Allah.”

He concluded with a phrase he hopes will define the team’s ethos:

“The sacred union — that is truly the message to repeat. It is what made us win.”

Morocco will open their AFCON 2025 campaign in Group A alongside Comoros, Zambia, and Mali.