CAN 2025. “The team that makes the fewest mistakes will win” (Walid Regragui)

Morocco are set to face Cameroon in the quarter‑finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Friday, January 9 at 8 p.m. in Rabat. Walid Regragui’s impatience was already palpable during the pre‑match press conference.

The national coach first gave an update on the injury list, which is gradually clearing.

"We are getting Hamza Igamane back, even though he was ready to come on against Tanzania," he noted, glancing at the striker seated beside him.

"Sofyan Amrabat is still struggling with his ankle, and we have not yet decided on his starting role. Romain Saïss is also still recovering,” assured the Moroccan coach, who expressed great respect for his upcoming opponent.

"It’s a continental clash against a team that needs no introduction. But our ambition to go as far as possible remains intact,” he emphasized.

He added: "Cameroon are ready. It will be a tough match. We hope to showcase the best of African football while reaching the semi‑finals."

Historically, Cameroon have been Morocco's nemesis

Historically, Cameroon have been Morocco’s nemesis. "You eliminated Morocco in the 1988 AFCON. But the past is the past. Personally, I always enjoyed success against Cameroon when I was an international," Walid Regragui noted.

The coach anticipates a clash of styles, illustrated by the possession gap: 63% for Morocco versus 45% for Cameroon.

"We will face a very strong team, compact and quick in transition. Cameroon have a solid five‑man defense and a highly athletic midfield. But tomorrow will be a different match, and it will likely balance out," he highlighted.

Regarding his counterpart, Walid Regragui expressed high regard, noting that David Pagou was appointed just before the AFCON—a situation reminiscent of his own experience ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

"It was a tough task for David Pagou to take charge of the team just before the AFCON. I had a similar experience before the 2022 World Cup," he recalled.

"We can see his influence and good ideas. Moreover, he has vast experience. He has coached extensively in Cameroon and knows the African context very well. I am pleased that Samuel Eto’o trusted a local coach."

In any case, Cameroon are in good form. "But they have everything to lose, because if they are eliminated, they will have to wait for the next AFCON, as they are not qualified for the 2026 World Cup. That’s why we sense highly motivated Cameroonians," Regragui stated.

The national coach then emphasized the importance of concentration at this stage of the competition:

"In this type of match, the slightest mistake costs dearly. The team that makes the fewest errors will emerge victorious."

"Maybe we will play with three at the back, maybe not. We'll see"

Asked about a possible switch to a 3‑4‑3 formation, Walid Regragui remained deliberately vague.

"There are several systems that could suit this encounter. But we are in the middle of the competition, and some things cannot be changed overnight. Maybe we will play with three at the back, maybe not. We’ll see."

The Moroccan coach nevertheless reiterated the national team’s philosophy:

"We are not necessarily looking to adapt to others. It might be up to them to adapt to us. When you adapt too much to the opponent, it shows fear of them."

On midfield adjustments, Regragui clarified that not all were planned:

For the coach, beyond individual profiles, collective movement remains essential.

"Regardless of the starting midfield, what matters is the mindset and the movement we create. Against Tanzania, we didn’t make enough runs, especially on Bilal El Khannouss’ side. He needs to play freely and simply."

In the last two matches, Morocco lined up with two attacking midfielders, given Sofyan Amrabat’s absence at the start.

"But it’s not about players or positions. It depends on the style of play we propose. If we start with two defensive midfielders, we are sending a different message."

Finally, Walid Regragui reflected on set‑piece efficiency:

"Morocco need an average of 25 corners to score a goal, compared to 20 for the best team in the world in this aspect, Arsenal." He added that Arsenal are a club with staff working on these phases daily.

And he concluded pragmatically: "We know set‑pieces are crucial in international competitions. But we don’t score from them in every match. The key is to be effective at the right moment."

CAN 2025. Maroc-Cameroun, une opposition de styles (Data)