“Do not let Super Eagles breathe”: Walid Regragui seeks first AFCON final in 22 years as Morocco prepare for Nigeria showdown

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·13 January 2026

“Do not let Super Eagles breathe”: Walid Regragui seeks first AFCON final in 22 years as Morocco prepare for Nigeria showdown

Morocco head coach sets ruthless tone before Nigeria showdown

“Do not let Super Eagles breathe”: Walid Regragui seeks first AFCON final in 22 years as Morocco prepare for Nigeria showdown

OneFootball Videos

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui urged his players to maintain relentless intensity against Nigeria warning that any drop in focus could prove costly in Wednesday’s AFCON 2025 semi final in Rabat.

Speaking in the Moroccan capital on Tuesday, Regragui framed the clash as one of the most significant matches in the nation’s modern football history.

It will be Morocco’s first Africa Cup of Nations semi final in 22 year and only third in their history following appearances in 1980 & 2004.

“It has been a long time since Morocco reached this stage.. We are happy but we know what Nigeria represent. This is their 17 semi final. That shows their strength & consistency” Regragui said

https://twitter.com/EnMaroc/status/2011091303485050919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Atlas Lions face Nigeria side that eliminated Algeria. Regragui stressed that Morocco must avoid the slow starts and late lapses that marked earlier rounds.

“We cannot repeat what happened in first half against Tanzania when we struggled to enter the game or the last 20 minute against Cameroon when we relaxed.. They have quality and clear style. we must not allow Nigeria to catch their breath and come back into the match. What matters is winning” he warned.

The coach also addressed the wider debate around refereeing at the tournament following complaints from Algeria & Cameroon. Regragui defended officials insisting controversy exists in every competition.

“It’s unfortunate that we always talk about refereeing” he said. “Controversy exists everywhere. everyone is doing their best. we focus only on the pitch and nothing else”

https://twitter.com/NGSuperEagles/status/2011096572365586639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Morocco will host Nigeria on Wednesday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium at 21:00 GMT and whoever wins the match will secure place in the Africa Cup of Nations final 2025.