Walid Regragui, Morocco’s current head coach, has once again fallen victim to what many are calling the ‘Africa Cup of Nations curse,’ losing the final for the second time in his career and reinforcing his association with heartbreak at decisive moments.
Regragui first experienced continental disappointment in 2004, when he was part of the Moroccan squad that reached the AFCON final in Tunisia. Despite a strong campaign, Morocco lost 2-1 to the host nation, dashing the team’s hopes of winning the title. That defeat marked Regragui’s first bitter encounter with Africa’s premier football tournament.
Years later, Regragui returned to the AFCON spotlight, this time as Morocco’s head coach. The 2025 tournament, held in early 2026, saw the Atlas Lions deliver a strong performance, demonstrating defensive discipline and mental resilience.
Morocco advanced to the final after defeating Nigeria in a tense penalty shootout, raising expectations of ending a 50-year wait for a continental crown.
However, Morocco was narrowly beaten 1-0 by Senegal in the final, again failing to capitalise on home advantage. The defeat underscored the fine margins of tournament football and left Regragui with a unique, if unwanted, record: he is the first individual in AFCON history to lose a final both as a player and as a coach.
Despite his domestic and international coaching achievements, continental glory has remained elusive for Regragui.
The twin disappointments serve as a reminder of the unpredictability and pressure of Africa’s biggest stage, while highlighting the ongoing challenge of translating Morocco’s talent and preparation into ultimate success.
