Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui said on Thursday that the quarterfinal showdown against Cameroon will be a “real battle between two giants,” as the Atlas Lions prepare to face the Indomitable Lions on Friday at 8:00 p.m. at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Regragui described the fixture as a major continental clash, stressing Cameroon’s historical status in African football. “Whether in the Africa Cup of Nations or the World Cup, Cameroon has always been a major nation representing Africa. We hope to show a strong face of African football,” he said.
The Moroccan coach underlined the importance of mentality and concentration at this advanced stage of the tournament, warning that “even the smallest mistake can be costly.” He added that the midfield battle will be decisive, highlighting the quality and role of players such as Bilal El Khannous, Ismael Saibari, and Neil El Ainaoui.
Regragui also noted Morocco’s recent positive record against Cameroon, recalling his own success against the Central African side during his playing career. He pointed out that the Cameroonian team is highly motivated to progress far in the competition, particularly after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Addressing the pressure surrounding the match, Regragui acknowledged that expectations weigh on the players but emphasized the importance of responsibility and public support. “The players feel the pressure. What matters most is that the public continues to support us. We have the humility to believe that we can win this AFCON,” he said, adding that the team remains confident in its approach and overall mindset.
On the injury front, the national coach confirmed that striker Hamza Igamane has fully recovered and is now 100 percent fit, while midfielder Sofyane Amrabat is still dealing with an ankle injury. Regragui noted that the medical staff is working intensively to accelerate Amrabat’s return.
For his part, Hamza Igamane stressed that the encounter against Cameroon will be far from easy, expressing gratitude to the medical staff for his recovery. “Now I am fully fit and at the coach’s disposal. Whether I start or not doesn’t matter. What counts is that we reach the semifinals,” he said.
Cameroon booked their place in the quarterfinals after defeating South Africa 2–1, while Morocco advanced by securing a narrow 1–0 victory over Tanzania.
