Morocco’s exit from the round of 16 in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the hands of South Africa has prompted severe criticism from the Moroccan media, expressing disappointment and frustration with the team’s performance.
Despite being hailed as strong contenders for the AFCON 2024 title, the Atlas Lions faced a 2-0 defeat against South Africa in San Pedro, southwestern Ivory Coast.
The absence of key players, Sofiane Boufal and Hakim Ziyech, due to injuries, left Morocco grappling with a depleted squad in a crucial encounter.
Media outlets in the Shereef kingdom did not hold back in their assessments. Le Matin pointed out that during the first half, the Atlas Lions “seemed to be going in circles,” and in the second half, they delivered what was termed as “their worst performance of the tournament.”
The team was criticized for lacking audacity, combativeness, and precision on the field.
The disappointment was palpable in the media’s analysis, highlighting the tactical mastery of South Africa’s Belgian coach, Hugo Broos.
The report noted that Broos intelligently allowed Morocco possession of the ball while ensuring a controlled game plan, ultimately securing qualification without facing significant challenges.
The elimination of Morocco from the AFCON 2024 has ignited discussions and reflections on the team’s strategy, individual performances, and the missed opportunity to enhance its continental record.
As the footballing community dissects the match, the Moroccan media’s critical perspective adds to the post-mortem analysis of a campaign that fell short of expectations.
Le penalty raté d’Achraf Hakimi. 🇲🇦😳 #CAN2023 pic.twitter.com/jDvRpQSzZ9
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) January 31, 2024
