Morocco and Walid Regragui carry home pressure with legitimate ambition for AFCON 2025 | OneFootball

Morocco host AFCON 2025 from 21 December to 18 January with just one continental crown, 1976, and expectations sky high. Walid Regragui carries a nation’s demand for a home triumph.

According to L'Équipe, the state has invested heavily in facilities and stadiums, notably Tangier’s Ibn Batouta, rebuilt for €340 million and set to showcase AFCON and the 2030 World Cup. The mood was set in Qatar when King Mohammed VI briefly joined Rabat’s celebrations after Spain were beaten on penalties, 0-0 then 3-0.

Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa has framed high yet measured aims, citing Morocco’s top African ranking for more than two years and a world position of 12th, then 11th in December, with Achraf Hakimi captain. He argues the talent on hand makes a push for the trophy a considered, legitimate ambition.

Regragui, appointed in autumn 2022 after Vahid Halilhodzic, built a compact, transition-first plan in Qatar. As hosts, the crowd will expect results and a more front-foot style from favourites.

The form book is strong, with eight wins from eight in 2026 World Cup qualifying and a world record run of 18 straight victories, completed in November by beating Mozambique 1-0 and Uganda 4-0. Brahim Diaz, 26, has become integral since 2023, despite only four starts for Real Madrid this season. Fitness questions linger over Hakimi’s left ankle and Nayef Aguerd’s pubalgia, while Hamza Igamane’s right adductor issue leaves him on standby.

Source: L'Équipe