“The national team above all else”… With this phrase, the coach chose to summarize his philosophy for managing the current stage of the Africa Cup of Nations, confirming that the Atlas Lions continue to evolve steadily after securing 4 points as they aim to defeat Zambia on Monday to top Group One and remain in Rabat. He also stressed that the team is not dependent on specific individuals, but on a collective mentality that places the national team’s interest above all else.
The coach expressed his complete satisfaction with the level shown in the last match, following a wave of criticism, explaining that his value is not limited to just scoring goals.
Speaking at the press conference for the match against Zambia in the final round of Group One matches at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, he said, “He is a pivotal player, mentally present, and his interventions in the final 30 meters are precise. The most important thing for me is that he is ready to serve the group.”
The coach returned to his previous statements about being the most suitable person to lead Morocco to the continental title, reaffirming his confidence in his technical project, adding, “I always believe I am the right man for this job, otherwise I wouldn’t be here. But I am aware that the road will not be paved with roses and we will suffer a lot.”
The coach addressed his choice to field a player in an unaccustomed position, highlighting that the player made a great physical effort, especially against Mali, and stressing that competition within the team is open, saying: “The field is open to everyone. The most important thing for me is the diversity of tactical options, including the possibility of playing with two strikers.”
Regarding the low number of shots on goal in the last two matches, the coach acknowledged there is clear room for improvement, explaining that he does not impose restrictions on his players in this aspect and that work is ongoing to improve offensive efficiency.
He also addressed the absence of a key player for two matches, describing him as the leader of the group, the best African player currently, and among the best in the world, noting that the player made a great effort to return and participate in the tournament.
The coach confirmed that his presence will give the Moroccan national team additional strength in the upcoming stages, as part of the ambition to go far in the competition, stressing that he represents not only technical value but also a moral example within the team.
Regarding the criticism that followed the draw with Mali, the coach explained that he understands the nature of public sentiment well due to his long experience as a player and coach, confirming that he had wished to change this mentality since taking over the national team.
In this regard, he said, “95 percent of Moroccans love and support the players, and we know very well what is required of us. If we qualify with seven points and some are still not satisfied, that is a positive thing and reflects that the ceiling of aspirations has become very high.”
Star Player: “The AFCON is Complex”
The star of the Moroccan national team and his French club confirmed the Atlas Lions’ readiness to face Zambia, stressing that the ambition is first to top Group One of the Africa Cup, then to think about the knockout stages.
The star said at the match press conference: “There is no easy match in the AFCON. We are ready and our goals are clear: topping the group first, then thinking about the next stage.”
The captain of the Atlas Lions reflected on the draw against Mali, considering that the Moroccan national team did not show the required level in that encounter, adding, “It was a tough match against a team representing a great sporting nation. I did not like what happened in that match. We know more is required of us and we will show a different face against Zambia.”
The star pointed out that the Africa Cup of Nations is a complex competition, governed by pressure from fans and the media, saying, “The fans and the press are demanding and want to win every match, but we must maintain our balance and humility because the tournament is not easy. What is required is to continue working seriously because we know what awaits us.”
Regarding his physical condition, the star explained that he feels better and is ready to help the national team at
