Khaberni - In an analytical reading of the final match in the African Cup of Nations between the Morocco and Senegal teams, Nashama team coach Jamal Salami and former Moroccan national team player considered that the handling of the penalty kick in the crucial moments was the direct reason for the defeat of the Moroccan team, more than any other technical data.
Salami confirmed in televised statements that such major matches are not decided only by physical readiness or tactical superiority, but by the ability to manage critical moments, explaining that the tension surrounding the execution of the penalty kick, and the protests that preceded it, negatively affected the focus of the player taking the penalty, and gave the opponent a clear mental advantage.
On the other hand, Salami highlighted the significant leadership role played by the captain of the Senegalese national team, Sadio Mane, considering him a true leader in every sense of the word, not just for what he provides technically on the field, but for his ability to calm his teammates and bring his team back into the game atmosphere at a moment that seemed to be spiraling out of control.
He added that Mane not only saved his national team, but also contributed to protecting the image of African football in a scene that could have slid into unfortunate chaos.
The speaker pointed out that the Senegalese team appeared stronger on the mental level, and dealt intelligently with the events of the final, while the Moroccan team paid the price for a single moment of confusion, despite its strong presence throughout the tournament and its performance which received praise from observers and fans.
Regarding the refereeing controversy and the interruptions and objections that accompanied the match, Salami emphasized that football is never free from refereeing mistakes, even in the biggest European tournaments, and that excessive protestation is often a double-edged sword, it may confuse the referee but it disorients the players more.
Jamal Salami concluded by emphasizing that the defeat, despite its harshness, holds important lessons for the Moroccan team, including the need to control nerves, respect the referee's decisions no matter how harsh, and to be mentally prepared for decisive moments, as major tournaments are not always won by playing prettier... but by being calmer. "Agencies"
