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Walid Regragui Secures 9th Spot in IFFHS Ranking: A Testament to Morocco's Football Excellence

Walid Regragui Secures 9th Spot in IFFHS Ranking: A Testament to Morocco's Football Excellence
Monday 01 January 2024 - 08:40
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Walid Regragui, the National Team Coach of Morocco, has earned the prestigious 9th position in the 2023 rankings by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS). This recognition places him among distinguished football personalities like Lionel Scaloni of Argentina, who claimed the title of IFFHS World's Best National Coach in 2023, closely trailed by France's national coach, Didier Deschamps.

This accolade is not unfamiliar territory for Regragui, who previously gained international acclaim for his outstanding guidance of Morocco's national team during the 2022 World Cup. Under his leadership, Morocco achieved an impressive fourth-place finish, a remarkable feat that contributed to Regragui being named the Coach of the Year 2023 by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This award specifically acknowledges his pivotal role in Morocco's successful run in the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

In a groundbreaking achievement, Regragui earlier secured the third position in the IFFHS rankings for men's national coaches, marking a historic moment for African coaches on the global stage. The federation's website proudly declared, "It is the first time in history that an African coach has graced the world podium!"

Under Regragui's astute leadership, the Moroccan squad defied all expectations, etching their name in football history. Their extraordinary performance marked them as the first African and Arab team to reach the semi-finals of the tournament. Despite grappling with injuries and sickness, Regragui's tactical acumen and the team's unwavering determination drew international acclaim. Notably, they triumphed over football powerhouses such as Belgium, Spain, and Portugal before succumbing to a 2-0 loss against France in the semi-finals.

While a 2-1 defeat against Croatia in the battle for third place followed, Morocco's fourth-place finish stands as an unprecedented achievement for both Moroccan and Arab teams. This remarkable feat solidifies Regragui's legacy as a visionary coach capable of steering his team towards greatness.

As the year transitions to 2024, Regragui's team embarks on a new challenge the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With their exceptional performance and status as favorites, Morocco's national team aims to make a deep run in the tournament, fueling hopes of clinching the ultimate victory.

Walid Regragui's journey exemplifies the pinnacle of Moroccan football excellence. His accolades and the team's triumphs serve as an inspiration to aspiring coaches and players, reinforcing Morocco's growing influence on the global football stage.


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