Morocco goes into tonight’s game against France knowing that they are one step away from becoming the first African country to play in a World Cup final.
As the Atlas Lion plots another world cup shocker, the reigning world champions will face a united African side.
Moroccan coach Walid Regragui is optimistic about his team’s chances of reaching the World Cup final.
Regragui stated during the press conference that he wants Africa to be at the top of the world.
“We want Africa to be top of the world, but we will have to be strong to progress.” “We are not the favorites, but we are confident, and maybe that makes me mad or crazy. A bit of crazy can be good,” he said.
“We had perhaps the most difficult route to the semi-finals.” “Every round people thought we would get knocked out, but we are still here, and we are going to fight to the end.”
Regragui also downplayed the injury concerns that have plagued his squad throughout the tournament, with center-backs Nayef Aguerd and Romain Saiss expected to miss tonight’s game.
“As everyone knows, we have a number of injuries but we have an excellent medical staff and they are working hard and coming in with good news every day, No one is out for now, but no one is definitely in either. We will put out the best side possible,” he said.
The Atlas Lions’ advancement to the last 16 was already regarded as a success, and they have continued to punch above their weight since defeating Spain and Portugal in the knockout stage.
Despite their performance and becoming the first African team to reach the semifinals, they are still considered the underdogs, and advancing to the final would be one of the most shocking results in World Cup history to many.
The winner of tonight’s semi-final will face Argentina, who defeated Croatia 3-0 the night before.