The national coach, Walid Regragui, emphasized that the match between the Moroccan team and the Central African Republic, scheduled for this Saturday at 8 p.m. at the Oujda Honorary Stadium, as part of the qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, will serve as a « real test » against an opponent likely to adopt a defensive approach.
During a press conference on the eve of the game, Regragui highlighted that « the key lies in the difference between the playing styles of both teams. We will face a team that prefers a defensive style with a low block, and we will need to find the right solutions and tactics. »
He warned that « failing to make use of all available options and not respecting the opponent could cause us significant challenges. »
He added, « We know what awaits us tomorrow against the Central African Republic, » noting that the game is an « opportunity to continue the work we’ve been doing. »
Regragui also mentioned that « the preparation went well. We intensified the training sessions. Two players joined us who did not participate in the initial preparation, such as Osama Sahraoui, who missed two days of training. »
Regarding the call-up of Raja Casablanca player Youssef Belamri, Regragui highlighted that he is a « very intelligent » player who « adapts quickly. »
He said, « I know him well. But he must seize this opportunity, especially with Noussair Mazraoui, the first choice, being absent, who might return to the team in November. »
The coach stated that he is « not worried about Belamri, either mentally or technically, as he will surely bring his own touch, providing solutions in the midfield. » He also mentioned Youssef Belamri and Adam Aznou as « good players. »
Regragui expressed his wish that « the team would be fully ready, with players like Chadi Riad, Hakim Ziyech, Brahim Diaz, or even Noussair Mazraoui. However, it is positive that this situation happens now, not right before the Africa Cup, allowing us to evaluate the available options and players. »
The coach had revealed, last Thursday, the final list of players called up for the two matches against the Central African Republic on October 12 and 15 as part of the Africa Cup qualifiers.
Morocco, which is already qualified for the tournament, is in Group B along with Gabon, Central African Republic, and Lesotho.
The Moroccan team won its first two qualifying matches against Gabon (4-1) and Lesotho (1-0).
