Morocco coach Walid Regragui insists his side will do all they can to avoid any bad surprises when they face Tanzania in the AFCON 2025 last‑16 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday.
He stressed that the Atlas Lions fully respect their opponents and are preparing for a tough, high‑pressure knockout tie.
“We know Tanzania well. It will be a difficult match. But we hope to win and qualify for the quarter-finals,” Regragui said at his pre‑match press conference, describing this tournament for Morocco as “a competition of realism par excellence”. He underlined that his team must stay calm and pragmatic because “everyone considers us the big favourites”, while noting Tanzania’s clear progress and strong local league.
Regragui highlighted that Tanzania “have good local players, used to African football”, and promised Morocco would play to their strengths to ensure there is no upset.
He also updated on key individuals, confirming Achraf Hakimi is physically ready to play, that Brahim Diaz is becoming increasingly influential as he adapts to African football, and that Hamza Igamane is recovering well thanks to round‑the‑clock work from the medical staff. Finally, he hailed Ayoub El Kaabi’s journey and mentality as a model for young Moroccan players.
