Morocco coach Walid Regragui said his defensive unit remains largely intact despite injury concerns ahead of Friday’s Africa Cup of Nations Group A match against Mali, as the tournament hosts look to build on their opening win.
Speaking at a pre match news conference on Thursday, Regragui addressed the fitness of Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd and captain Romain Saiss, all of whom have been monitored following recent injuries.
“Except for Romain Saiss, the whole defense is ready,” Regragui said. “Hakimi is being managed carefully. There is no concern about Aguerd.”
Saiss was forced off early during Morocco’s 2 to 0 win over Comoros in their Group A opener, while Hakimi returned from injury shortly before the tournament after missing club action with Paris Saint Germain.
Regragui was joined at the news conference by young defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, whom the coach said he has followed closely since his youth years.
“I have known him since he was a child. He is a big talent,” Regragui said. “But we have to manage him carefully. It is important not to rush young players.”
Ait Boudlal said he was focused on learning from senior teammates and staying ready if called upon.
Morocco, unbeaten in 19 matches under Regragui, acknowledged shortcomings in their opening performance but emphasized control and patience as part of their approach.
“We sometimes lacked runs into space and presence in the box,” Regragui said. “But possession wears teams down.”
He expects a different challenge from Mali, describing them as more physical and technically assertive.
“Mali will show more personality and create more space, but there will also be moments where we suffer,” he said.
The match will be played Friday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
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