World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: For Regragui, Victory Remains Paramount
In the quest for qualification for the 2026 World Cup, Moroccan national team coach Walid Regragui emphasized the importance of securing victories despite acknowledging the challenges ahead. Following the Atlas Lions' hard-fought 2-1 win against Zambia on Friday in Agadir, during the third matchday of the African qualifiers (Group E), Regragui addressed the media with a pragmatic yet determined tone.
"We put in a decent performance to claim all three points at home. Scoring two goals at home is important, but we must admit that the qualifications have become more difficult," he stated during the post-match press conference.
Exuding confidence in his squad, Regragui remained composed, declaring, "I am very calm. I believe in my group, and they will be ready for the future. This is the highest level; there are no easy matches. The essential thing is to win the three points."
However, the national team coach expressed concern over the team's apparent lapse in concentration after scoring the two goals. "I am worried about the goal we conceded. We have some lingering doubts from the last African Nations Cup. These are the kind of matches that will help us progress. I know the performance did not satisfy everyone, but the response will come on the pitch," he analyzed, noting that the technical staff will address this aspect to ensure the players maintain their level of concentration throughout the matches.
Commenting on the reactions of Hakim Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri, who seemed frustrated after being substituted, Regragui affirmed that such behavior is "completely normal, as every player hopes to play and give their best."
"A player who is not upset after being taken off is abnormal. It is I who make the decisions. We needed fresh legs. I take responsibility for starting Ziyech, but when it was time to make a change, I did not hesitate," he stated, emphasizing that "the most important thing is the national team."
Looking ahead to the Lions' next match against Congo on Tuesday in Agadir, Regragui stressed the importance of securing victory to maintain their lead in the group. "Against Congo, the essential thing is to win. We respect this team and will do our utmost to raise our level. We will try to correct the mistakes made in this match," he added.
With this victory, Morocco solidifies its position as the leader of Group E with six points, collected from two matches. The clash against the Congo Brazzaville national team, scheduled for the fourth matchday, will take place on June 11 at the Grand Stade d'Agadir (8:00 PM), instead of the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.