Khaberni - Moroccan national team coach, Walid Rkakra, considers that qualifying for the final of the African Cup of Nations after defeating Nigeria in the penalty kicks does not mean that the mission is accomplished, stressing that the "Atlas Lions" still have a lot of work before the anticipated final match next Sunday.
Rkakra explained in the press conference that the Moroccan team faced a stubborn and solid opponent, reminding that Nigeria scored 14 goals in the tournament, but their players only shot at Yassine Bounou's goal twice, considering that such games are decided by small details and strong mental presence.
The Moroccan coach added: "We haven't achieved anything yet, and we must continue working with the same seriousness, because the final is completely different in terms of pressure and responsibility."
Rkakra discussed the controversy surrounding his personality and statements, saying that he does not expect anyone to describe him as a good coach, and confirming that self-esteem is a value he was raised on in his family as the son of a construction worker. He added that he accepts criticism and is not bothered by it, rather sometimes considers it an additional motivation.
Regarding the penalty kicks, Rkakra apologized to striker Hamza Ijman for assigning him to take one of the shots despite his recent return from injury, considering that it was a rash decision, emphasizing that he would have taken full responsibility if the team had lost.
He also revealed that Youssef En-Nesyri requested to take the last shot.
Rkakra confirmed that the next phase requires Morocco to get used to consistently being in the advanced rounds and competing for continental titles, strengthening Morocco's position as a major sporting nation.
