Morocco must aim to win 2025 AFCON after World Cup qualification – Walid Regragui

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has challenged his side to aim for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title following their historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

The Atlas Lions became the first African team to book their spot at the Mundial after a commanding 5-0 victory over Niger on Friday at Rabat’s Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

At the post-match press conference, Regragui praised his players for their intensity and discipline, particularly in the opening stages when Niger received early yellow cards. He noted that Morocco capitalised on the numerical advantage after Niger were reduced to ten men, creating the space to score freely.

“It’s historic. We keep building on this dynamic. At the end, the most important thing is qualification,” Regragui said.

However, the coach cautioned against complacency. “When you play 11 against 10, there can be a little relaxation. But the team did the job. We started strong, and 5-0 is a significant result for this first match at the stadium.”

With Morocco’s qualification secured, expectations are now higher than ever. “Fans have the right to demand the AFCON trophy. They have been waiting for it for so long. I have this mission, this difficult mission. I have big ambitions and want this to happen,” Regragui stated.

He added, “The team, the fans, the FRMF president, and the King deserve it.” Highlighting a shift in mindset, the coach explained that while the team once aimed for modest goals—like earning a point to secure World Cup qualification—the standards have now risen.

“The bar is high. Now, the expectation is to win every game, and fans are right to demand this,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Morocco have already arrived in Zambia ahead of their Matchday 8 qualifier against the host nation. The game is scheduled for Monday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, with kick-off at 13:00 GMT.