Morocco head coach Walid Regragui delivered a determined and clear‑eyed press conference ahead of his team’s Africa Cup of Nations 2025 semi‑final clash with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, insisting the match is as significant as a final and spotlighting the tactical and psychological readiness of his squad.
Regragui described the encounter set for Wednesday, January 14, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat as a defining moment for the host nation, who haven’t reached this stage of a home‑hosted AFCON in decades.
“We are happy to reach the semi‑finals… and the match will not be easy — it will be a strong contest between the two teams,” Regragui said, emphasizing the weight of the occasion. “It’s like a final before the final.”
Addressing narratives surrounding officiating and home advantage, Regragui was emphatic that Morocco’s strength lies in its performance and support, not external factors.
In statements that resonated with both realism and ambition, Regragui positioned this clash as not only a tactical duel but a matter of national pride and historical significance. The Atlas Lions, unbeaten for an extended run and buoyed by a fervent home crowd, are widely regarded as formidable opponents, but Regragui chose respect for the Super Eagles while underlining his confidence in his own side’s readiness.
Regragui’s press conference was a blend of measured respect for Nigeria’s quality and firm belief in Morocco’s own capabilities — a tone that reflects both the *pressure and promise* surrounding the semifinal fixture. With the encounter poised to be one of the tournament’s most compelling showdowns, the Moroccan coach’s words highlight a team focused on performance, unity, and writing its own history at AFCON 2025.