Morocco's CAN Countdown: Regragui Finishes the Puzzle with Mazraoui Ready to Step Up

AFCON Build-Up: Morocco’s Final Training Camp

The Moroccan squad opened a crucial training camp at the Mohammed VI Complex near Salé as they sharpen preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). After this camp they will move to Tangier for friendlies against Mozambique on 14 November and Uganda on 18 November as part of intensive CAN preparation.

The camp is described by coach Walid Regragui as the decisive final phase to evaluate players and finalize the squad, while navigating notable absences shaping the defense and leadership in the group.

Captain Achraf Hakimi remains sidelined long-term, and Nayef Akhrad, a Marseille defender, arrived with a groin setback that could impact his CAN chances. Regragui met him directly to check his health and confirm participation.

Romain Saïss returns after 17 months away, adding experience to the back line as Morocco looks to fill defensive gaps, especially with Hakimi's return still unclear per PSG's timetable.

Mazraoui is highlighted as the possible replacement if Hakimi cannot feature; Regragui called Mazraoui a world-class player and suggested there is no other option with equal quality to cover Hakimi's role.

The duo Hakimi and Saïss anchors the squad, with Hakimi maintaining contact via video from Paris and encouraging teammates to deliver strong performances in the friendlies to reassure fans ahead of CAN.

Morocco will host the friendlies at Tangier's 75,000-capacity stadium, with tickets sold out and fans being urged to travel by high-speed trains for a wave of match-day excitement.

Punchlines: The defense is so tight that even the ball files a restraining order. If Hakimi can’t make it, Mazraoui steps up—it's like bringing backup pizza to the main course: still delicious, and arguably more reliable than the original slice.