Present at a press conference this Thursday alongside Hoalid Regragui, Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal displayed a calm yet determined demeanor on the eve of the Morocco–Mali match (Friday, Rabat), as part of the second day of Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The young defender assured that the team is working under good conditions, with a mindset focused on the demands of the upcoming match.
In his remarks, the Stade Rennais player highlighted the daily rigor within the camp, emphasizing adherence to instructions and the responsibility that comes with playing at home. He also reminded that in this AFCON, “no match is easy,” delivering a clear message ahead of a tightly contested duel against a Malian team known for its physicality and athletic quality.
“We are serious at every training session and we pay attention to the instructions. We are aware of the responsibility that lies with us.” In a few words, Aït Boudlal summarized the current demands: to stay focused, follow the staff’s plan, and handle the pressure of a tournament at home, where even the slightest mistake can be costly.
This statement comes as Regragui has publicly reaffirmed his confidence in Aït Boudlal, mentioning a gradual integration and a potential “for the present and the future,” in a context where the Moroccan defense must cope with the absence of Romain Saïss. For his part, the defender sent a clear signal of availability: ready to step up if given the chance by the staff, and aware of the expectations surrounding the Lions of the Atlas in this competition.
