Niger head coach and Moroccan football icon Badou Zaki revealed he was overcome with emotion while listening to the Moroccan national anthem before his side faced Morocco in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
An Emotional Moment for a National Hero
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Zaki admitted that the occasion was deeply moving, as he found himself on the opposite side of the country he represented for years.
“I had tears in my eyes and was trying to hold them back during the Moroccan national anthem,” Zaki confessed. “I’ve spent my entire career defending Morocco’s colors, and now I find myself in a situation where I have to coach against my own country.”
The 65-year-old, who enjoyed a distinguished playing career as Morocco’s goalkeeper and later led the national team as a coach, acknowledged the difficulty of preparing for the encounter.
“I’ve been thinking about how to beat Morocco for 15 days,” he admitted. “I wouldn’t wish this situation on anyone.”
A Hard-Fought Contest
Despite the personal struggle, Zaki remained professional as he led Niger in a challenging match against the Atlas Lions. Morocco secured a 2-1 victory in the fixture, which was part of the fifth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The game saw Morocco continue their strong qualifying campaign, while Niger, under Zaki’s leadership, showed resilience despite the defeat.
A Legacy Rooted in Moroccan Football
Zaki’s deep connection with Moroccan football spans decades. As a player, he was a key figure for the national team, notably leading Morocco to the round of 16 in the 1986 FIFA World Cup—the first time an African team had achieved such a feat. His heroics in goal made him one of the most celebrated players in the country’s history.
After transitioning into management, Zaki took charge of the Moroccan national team on multiple occasions, most notably guiding them to the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations final. His return to the international stage as Niger’s head coach has now presented him with an unfamiliar challenge—facing the very team he helped shape.
Professionalism Above All
Despite his emotional ties, Zaki remained committed to his role, ensuring his team was well-prepared for the contest. While Morocco emerged victorious, the match was a testament to the strong tactical setup he instilled in his Nigerien squad.
The match result solidifies Morocco’s position in the qualification race, while Zaki and his Niger side will look to regroup ahead of their next fixture.
For Zaki, the night was more than just a football match—it was a deeply personal moment, torn between national pride and professional duty.
