Morocco head coach Walid Regragui praised his players’ character after their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, insisting they never felt intimidated by the occasion.
Regragui explained that “mutual respect was present between the two teams,” describing the clash as a fierce battle between two sides that share a similar playing style and rely heavily on technically gifted players. He highlighted how closely contested the game was, with both teams fighting for every ball and refusing to give an inch.
The Moroccan coach admitted that Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Algeria in the quarter-finals had made his staff reflect deeply on their own tactical approach. “When you see the way they beat Algeria, you ask yourself many questions, because we use the same style of play and had to be very cautious,” he said, likening the encounter to a heavyweight boxing match due to the intensity and balance in possession.
Regragui stressed that Morocco did not approach the match with any fear, emphasising that this mindset does not exist in his squad.
His team now turn their focus to the final against Senegal, scheduled for Sunday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where they will chase continental glory in front of passionate supporters.
