Morocco head coach Walid Regragui says he is not concerned about his future as his side prepare to face Nigeria in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Atlas Lions meet the Super Eagles on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, with both teams widely regarded as the standout performers at the tournament.
Speaking at his pre-match news conference, Regragui dismissed suggestions that defeat could place his position under threat, insisting his focus remains solely on his players and the task ahead.
“Not just me, every coach that has a job has to prepare in case he is sacked, but for me, this is not my mindset. Never” Regragui said.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Nigeria and Morocco arrive at the last-four stage carrying significant expectations. Many observers believe the winner of the tie will go on to lift the trophy.
For Nigeria, the semi-final represents more than just a route to the final. The Super Eagles are still seeking redemption after narrowly missing out on qualification for the 2026 World Cup, and none of the current squad has won a major international title.
Morocco, meanwhile, are chasing their first Africa Cup of Nations triumph since 1976. Despite reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the Atlas Lions have yet to translate that success into continental silverware.
Regragui has been in charge since 2022 but has not won a major trophy, increasing scrutiny on his tenure. However, the 49-year-old was clear that concerns over job security would not influence his approach.
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“I’m here to make the best squad on the pitch, to help my players, and to do the best to make my country and the fans happy,” he said.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
“If I started the job with the mindset to be sacked, I wouldn’t even do the job. So I’m not afraid about getting sacked.”
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Wednesday’s semi-final is expected to be a tightly contested encounter, with both sides aiming to end long waits for continental glory and secure a place in the AFCON 2025 final.
