Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has embraced the pressure of leading the Atlas Lions at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, which they will host.
Drawn in Group A alongside Mali, Zambia, and Comoros, Regragui acknowledged the unique pressures of playing in front of a home crowd but believes it serves as motivation. "Of course, there is additional pressure, but we're not going to hide from it," he stated. "This pressure is not just on me as the coach but also on the players.
It's a big responsibility, but it's one we accept with pride." As one of Africa's top footballing nations, Morocco aims for their first AFCON title since 1976. "There are supporters who have dreamed of this trophy staying in Morocco since 1976," Regragui noted. "The sacred union between the team and the fans will be crucial." He emphasised that while pressure exists, it must be channelled positively. "We are highly motivated and have all the conditions to have a great tournament," he added.
The draw presented a mix of challenges.
