Morocco’s Tactical Tightrope: Regragui Maps Mali Clash and Hakimi’s Return, With a Striker Mystery

Morocco isn't cursed by injuries.

Match preview

Walid Regragui, Morocco's head coach, said the goal in tomorrow's match against Mali is to secure a second consecutive win to guarantee progression to the next round of the Africa Cup of Nations.

In the pre-match press conference for the second round, he said: "We will face a strong team different from Comoros; each of us knows the steps we must take to cross this barrier."

"I think Mali won't park the bus, and that will leave some space behind, so we'll try to exploit it as best as we can."

On injuries and Hakimi's status, Regragui said: "We do not complain about injuries; I was surprised by those who spoke of Nayef Aguerd’s injury, as he is ready; the only absentee is Romain Saiss; Hakimi has fully recovered, and we'll decide if he starts or comes on."

Another note: a victory tomorrow would mean early qualification, with a calm setup for the remaining rounds; staying in the capital and finishing the group stage on top is the aim.

I don't know whether I'll start with En-Nesyri, El Kaabi, or Rahimi, but I know we must win, God willing.

Morocco opened their campaign with a 2-0 win over Comoros, while Mali drew 1-1 with Zambia.

Ahead of the game, players stressed focus and unity, promising a performance that matches the nation's pride.

Punchline 1: If strategy were a joke, Morocco's starting XI would be a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside a ball.

Punchline 2: And if the referee had a say in the lineup, we'd still end up with a squad that confuses even the tutorial mode.