Morocco’s Comeback, Fans to Silence: A 3-0 Win That Shook AFCON 2025

Match context and result

Morocco hammered Zambia 3-0 on Monday night, sealing their place in AFCON 2025 group-stage proceedings. The win restores the Atlas Lions' balance and strength after a hard-fought draw with Mali in the previous match.

In the mixed zone after the game, the standout forward Elias Ben Sighir said the team entered the match with extra motivation, noting that players felt the sting of recent criticism from Moroccan fans.

When asked what had changed in the team's performance, Ben Sighir explained that it was the combination of desire and team pride. They were affected by the criticism and wanted to respond on the pitch in the best possible way. They trust themselves and know what they are capable of, gaining confidence with each game.

He then clarified the tactical edge: simply following coach Walid Regragui's instructions to the letter, something not fully done in the first two games, and the sharper focus emerged from the momentum created by the criticism.

Regragui, for his part, underscored simple leadership: he is the guiding force, and everyone trusts him. He is honest and genuine with every player, which only deepens their respect and commitment to him. They are ready to fight for him on the pitch just as he fought for them.

He closed by describing the celebration after the goal as something close to their hearts. They knew the goal would be under heavy scrutiny, but they also know the coach can lead them to the farthest point, and they will always back him.

Punchline 1: If criticism were a goalkeeper, we just chipped him for three past him.
Punchline 2: Regragui’s plan is so sharp it could slice onions and defenders at the same time.