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National coach Walid Regragui addressed the Moroccan team's elimination in the 2023 Afcon's round of 16, urging lessons learned and future improvements.
«Coming in as World Cup semi-finalists, each team targeted us. Pressure might have affected us. Historically, CAN has been challenging for us. We must analyze and solve issues before hosting the next CAN», Regragui acknowledged in an interview with sports channel Arryadia on Friday.
«Despite generating chances and ball possession, we lacked efficiency. We must work on this», he warned.
«Preparation started 15 days prior, with early arrival for acclimatization. The Federation provided good conditions», Regragui recalled, adding that «team changes aimed to utilize specific player profiles and address injuries/illnesses».
As for physical preparedness, he admitted «We had top World Cup performances with non-starters. Perhaps mentality impacted our play».
Addressing the incident that occurred following the game against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the coach said that he «erred in approaching him (Chancel Mbemba) warmly, but timing was off. Football happens».
Asked about the third the team’s third Afcon game, Regragui said that «We needed to win for group leadership, a lower-ranked opponent in the last 16, and staying in San Pedro». «Avoiding excessive rotation was crucial to maintain key players' competitive rhythm|, he added.
Regarding Hakim Ziyech's injury, the coach said that «he was scheduled for half a game but got injured just before halftime».
As for Ivory Coast's victory, Regragui asserted it was "not luck, but their work and second-round transformation». «Their initial struggle may have fueled them. A good sports lesson|.
«We aimed to repeat the World Cup excitement. We gave our best, but details led to elimination. I take responsibility for player choices and strategy», he regretted.
