In Agadir on Thursday, Moroccan national team coach Walid Regragui said the Atlas Lions are determined to win their match against Zambia and maintain their lead atop Group E of the African qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026. «We'll do everything necessary to secure the three points and stay ahead in the group», Regragui told a pre-match press conference. «We're familiar with Zambia, having faced them at the last Africa Cup of Nations», he continued. «However, Friday's match at Adrar Stadium in Agadir will be played in front of our home crowd, creating a different atmosphere». Regragui acknowledged that the Moroccan team «can improve upon recent performances. While we scored in the friendly against Angola, converting the chances we create is crucial. It's not a matter of lacking attacking play – the national team generates many opportunities, but our goal-scoring efficiency needs work». «Our players are talented, but club-level play differs from national team duty», he explained. «With more matches under their belt, I believe they'll become more comfortable and therefore more effective». «Playing at home demands a win», Regragui emphasized, «but the goal is World Cup qualification. Qualification is a marathon with several matches, and we're prepared for the challenge. Our ambition is to secure Morocco's third consecutive World Cup appearance». Zambia's coach, Avram Grant, acknowledged the star power of the Moroccan team, filled with players from top leagues, but expressed his team's ambition to win the game. He also noted the different context of Friday's encounter compared to the last AFCON meeting. Morocco currently leads Group E with 3 points after their away victory over Tanzania (0-2) on November 21. Zambia, Niger, and Tanzania, who have played two matches each, also have 3 points.
