Morocco Prepares for 2015 AFCON with Friendlies and Focus on Team Cohesion
As hosts of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco is intensifying preparations with a series of friendly matches, including upcoming tests against the Central African Republic and Kenya.
Speaking at a press conference, Atlas Lions head coachBadou Zaki emphasized his commitment to building a cohesive, competitive squad, rather than relying on individual stars.
“I believe in the group and collective work, not in stars,” he stated, underscoring the depth of talent available in Moroccan football.
🧤 Spotlight on Player Selection
Zaki addressed questions surrounding certain high-profile players:
Yassine Bonou (Bono):
“Yassine is a great goalkeeper. Even if he lacks playing time, he fully deserves to be among the 3 or 4 goalkeepers of the national team.”
Karim Bellarabi:
Though Bellarabi has shown interest in playing for Morocco, Zaki acknowledged the player’s situation and respected the personal decision process.
🏟️ What’s Next
Morocco, as automatically qualified hosts, will use these friendlies to test tactics, build chemistry, and assess depth. They face the Central African Republic tonight, with the match serving as a key opportunity for fringe players to prove themselves.
With Zaki’s emphasis on team unity over star power, Morocco is shaping up to be a well-drilled side ready to compete on home soil in January 2015.
