AFCON 2023: Morocco’s Coach Walid Regragui Explains the Reason for His Side’s Defeat to South Africa

• Morocco lost their crunch Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final fixture against South Africa
• Goals from Evidence Makgopa and Teboho Mokoena were enough to seal victory for Bafana Bafana
• Coach Walid Regragui has provided an explanation for his side’s defeat against the South Africans

The 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) again lived up to its highly unpredictable script as tournament favourite Morocco were dealt a crushing blow by widely criticised South Africa.

The quarter-final clash, initially anticipated to be a leisurely stroll for the Atlas Lions, unfolded in a manner that only a select few could have imagined.

Despite Morocco's creation of a multitude of threatening chances, it was Bafana Bafana who took the lead with a splendid strike from Orlando Pirates forward Evidence Makgopa.

Undeterred, Morocco persisted in their finely orchestrated football, aiming for a comeback. However, their aspirations were dealt a severe blow when defensive midfielder Teboho Mokoena executed a well-taken freekick from the edge of the 18-yard box with aplomb.

South African fans blame ex-Kaizer Chiefs defender Xulu for AFCON defeat against Mali

Football

This defeat ultimately condemned the Atlas Lions, who were widely tipped to clinch the tournament, to a bitter exit from the AFCON.

In the aftermath of the surprise exit for the North African giant, coach Walid Regragui explained the reasons behind his team's unexpected defeat against their formidable opponent.

Morocco's coach on defeat to South Africa

In his post-match comments, the 48-year-old, as reported by Soccer Laduma, emphasised the unforgiving nature of football at this level, highlighting missed opportunities that could have secured victory in the first half.

Reflecting on a critical moment in the match, Morocco had a golden chance to equalise with five minutes remaining through a penalty awarded for a handball. However, Achraf Hakimi's attempt struck the crossbar, further impacting the team's fortunes.

"The penalty hurt us significantly, and while we may not have fulfilled every requirement, I bear full responsibility," acknowledged Regragui.

Kenneth Omeruo reflects on Peseiro’s inspirational half-time talk during Super Eagles’ AFCON win over Ivory Coast

Football

Admitting shortcomings, he added, "Certainly, we fell short in certain aspects. I take complete responsibility. The players dedicated themselves and followed instructions. This unexpected setback is a learning experience. Despite our initial humility, today we must acknowledge that we fell short of our mission."

Expressing disappointment for the fans who passionately supported the team throughout the tournament, Regragui owned up to the failure as a coach, seeking to shoulder the responsibility for the unexpected outcome.

The manager's words seem to serve as a pre-emptive response to the mounting criticism directed at the team, especially considering the high expectations placed on the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists entering the tournament.

Looking ahead, Morocco aims to regroup for the next tournament, which they will host. The hope is to secure victory and bring an end to their 50-year wait for AFCON glory.

Rigobert Song names new AFCON favourite

Sports Brief in another report pointed out that the coach of the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, Rigobert Song, has named a new favourite to win the AFCON following his team's elimination.

The Central African nation were knocked out by Nigeria at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on January 27.