Alain Giresse has praised the work of Morocco head coach Walid Regragui ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations final, describing the upcoming clash with Senegal as a fitting finale that brings together the continent’s two outstanding teams.
The former Senegal coach, speaking as the tournament reaches its decisive stage, said the final between the Atlas Lions and the Lions of Teranga represents the highest level of African football and reflects the quality both sides have shown throughout the competition.
“It’s a very exciting final between Morocco and Senegal. They are the two best African teams. We are fortunate to witness this high-level match,” Giresse said in an exclusive statement given to Le Site info Sport.
Giresse highlighted Senegal’s consistent progress to the final, noting the balance and depth within their squad.
He underlined the importance of the team’s collective strength and the options available from the bench, which he believes have been decisive in navigating the challenges of the tournament.
“Senegal has perfectly navigated its path to the final. It is a high-quality team, with a rich squad, especially on the bench. So far, Senegal has had a flawless run and reaches the final against a solid and confident Morocco,” Giresse stated.
Turning his attention to the host nation, Giresse spoke warmly about Walid Regragui’s leadership and the evolution of the Moroccan national team under his guidance.
He recalled their shared history, pointing out that he was Regragui’s first professional coach during his time at Toulouse, and expressed pride in the progress the Moroccan coach has made since then.
Speaking about the Moroccan national team’s performances under Walid Regragui, the coach said: “I am very happy with what Walid Regragui is achieving. We must not forget that I was his first professional coach, in Toulouse. When you see what he has already accomplished, especially at the World Cup, leading Morocco to the semi-finals, you realize the extent of the work done.”
Giresse also addressed the tactical maturity shown by Morocco during the tournament, stressing that Regragui’s management has been a key factor behind their success.
According to the former France international, the Atlas Lions have demonstrated clarity in their approach, adapting effectively to different opponents while maintaining a clear identity on the pitch.
He added: “Regragui has a strong and attractive team, which he manages intelligently. This is clearly reflected in his choices, his lineups, and his ability to adopt the most appropriate tactical approach for each match. The criticism he has faced has been very harsh, but fortunately, he has remained focused on his work. Today, he is leading Morocco to the final. To complete this success, they will have to win this crucial match.”
The final is expected to be a showcase of African football at its best, with both teams arriving full of confidence and ambition.
For Morocco, playing on home soil adds further significance to the occasion, while Senegal aim to crown an impressive campaign with another continental title.
As a reminder, the national team will face Senegal next Sunday at 8:00 PM, at the Moulay Abdellah stadium in Rabat, in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.
