Address the burgeoning controversy surrounding the heated altercation between Moroccan coach Walid Regragui and OM defender Chancel Mbemba during the AFCON 2023 match against the DRC (1-1), Regragui clarified his stance in an exclusive interview with L’Equipe. The incident, which triggered on-field and off-field altercations, became the focal point of social media discussions.
Regragui, in comments relayed by L’Equipe, vehemently denied rumors circulating on social networks that he made racist remarks towards Chancel Mbemba.
The dispute unfolded during the match, leading to an exchange of words and subsequent altercations involving both teams, extending into the corridors leading to the locker room.
While Regragui initially downplayed the incident at a press conference alongside Sébastien Desabre, Mbemba’s ambiguous comments in the mixed zone escalated the situation.
The Congolese international refrained from divulging specific details but hinted at having video evidence. His comments sparked reactions on social media, with accusations of racism gaining traction.
In response to Mbemba’s statements, Regragui sought to set the record straight. He clarified the sequence of events, emphasizing that he had expressed displeasure to Desabre about Mbemba’s behavior during the match.
Regragui invited Mbemba to produce any additional footage he might have to present an accurate account of the incident.
Regragui recounted his attempt to shake hands with Mbemba after the match, highlighting that the OM defender had confronted him and his assistant on the sidelines before refusing the handshake.
The Moroccan coach denied using derogatory language and disputed any insinuations of racism in his comments, urging Mbemba to be honest with himself.
This clarification from Regragui aims to dispel the rumors and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the incident.
With the controversy addressed, the focus now shifts back to the field, where the Atlas Lions, led by Regragui, seek qualification in their upcoming match against Zambia on the last day of Group F.
