Walid Regragui, the coach of Morocco’s national team, said Zambia is a difficult team to deal with, after the two teams were placed in the same group for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Just like in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the Atlas Lions who are hosting the team from 21 December, 2025 to 16 January 2026, will face the Chipolopolo, Mali and Comoros.

In an interview with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Regragui, expressed optimism about his team’s chances of winning the tournament on home soil.

Regragui evaluated the opponents, stating that the team will focus on preparing adequately for the tournament.

“Comoros A Surprise Package” – Regragui.

He states that Comoros are a formidable side while Mali is one of the strongest teams on the continent.

“We have a year ahead of us before the competition begins, and our focus will be on preparing thoroughly to be ready for the big day.”

“We’re facing Mali, one of the strongest football nations in Africa, Zambia, a team that’s always tough to handle, and Comoros, the surprise package,” he noted.

The coach has promised to make the hosting of the AFCON a memorable moment for the North African nation that last won the tournament in 1976.

“We are hoping to make one of the best AFCONs in history, and it will be—especially if we win it,” Regragui said.

He is certain that his team will give it their all in order to win the championship at home.

“There are many strong contenders for the title, proof of the remarkable progress of African football,” he added.

READ ALSO: “Tricky Group” – Noah Chivuta Describes Zambia’s 2025 AfCON Group.