After inspiring Morocco to a historic semi-final place at last year’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Walid Regragui has set a target of helping the Atlas Lions win the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since 1976.
Regragui, who was named African Coach of the Year at the 2023 CAF Awards on Monday, said the award was a strong motivator as he strives for greater success on the continent.
“I am very proud and honoured to have received this beautiful award. It is not just for me. This is a collective trophy. It is a group trophy. I would never be here if it was not for the players, coaching staff, the entire team……. And everyone who has supported us each step of the way,” Regragui told CAFOnline.com.
Regragui added, “What we did at the World Cup was historic and when people recognize this talent, it means so much to me and everyone on the team. It was an unbelievable achievement at the World Cup. We put Africa on the world map.”
“But now, we have a different mindset. The Africa Cup of Nations is very, very tough but we are going with the same spirit and inshallah, if we do our very best, we are going to win this trophy.”
Morocco seeking first AfCON title in 47 year
Morocco has won the AFCON only once, in 1976. The Atlas Lions reached the final in 2004 but were defeated 2-1 by hosts Tunisia. In 1980, they also won bronze.
Regragui’s side is in Group F with Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Tanzania.
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They will open their campaign against Tanzania at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro before facing the Chipolopolo Boys in their final group stage match on January 24, 2024.
