Author: La Redaction
Two days after Morocco’s successful opening against Comoros (2-0) in Rabat, the news surrounding the Atlas Lions is dominated by a single image: Romain Saïss, the captain, forced to leave the pitch before the 20th minute due to a muscle injury. In a stadium filled with celebration, this premature exit dampened the atmosphere and shifted the focus from the result to the condition of a key player, central to the defensive balance. In the mixed zone, Saïss expressed his frustration and caution: “I didn’t want to take any risks; we need players at 100%. It saddens me because I’ve made…
Two days before the match against Mali (Friday, December 26 in Rabat), the Atlas Lions have received a reassuring indicator: Achraf Hakimi has resumed training with the group, appears fit after his ankle issue, and reportedly feels no discomfort anymore. In a press conference, the PSG full-back had already explained that he feels ready, while leaving it to the staff to decide on his usage, following a period of management and gradual return. In a home tournament, Hakimi’s presence changes the dynamics of the match: his volume, his runs, and his ability to shift the tempo are a major asset…
Amir Richardson, the 23-year-old Moroccan international midfielder, is making headlines as the end of 2025 approaches. Currently under contract with Fiorentina until 2029, the player born in Nice has openly expressed his desire to leave Italy during the winter transfer window. Struggling for playing time under Paolo Vanoli (only four matches across all competitions this season), Richardson is looking to revive his career. According to Fabrizio Romano, several European clubs are interested in him, but OGC Nice has already made a concrete approach to the Viola. Trained at OGC Nice from U13 to U17 before continuing his development at Le…
In their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the African champions (2021) showed no signs of hesitation. Senegal dominated Botswana with a score of 3-0 at the Grand Stade de Tanger during the first day of Group D. This controlled victory allows the Lions of Teranga to take the lead in their group thanks to a better goal difference. A One-Sided Match From the kickoff, the Senegalese, led by Pape Thiaw (who replaced Aliou Cissé on the bench), imposed their rhythm. Facing a solid and well-organized Botswana team under the orders of Morena Ramoreboli, the Lions created…
Egypt, the most decorated nation in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations with seven titles, has perfectly launched its campaign for CAN 2025 in Morocco. In their opening match against Zimbabwe, held on December 22 at the Grand Stadium of Agadir, the Pharaohs secured a valuable 2-1 victory. Trailing for much of the match, Hossam Hassan’s men demonstrated exemplary resilience, led by their global stars, to turn the tide and claim all three points. This laborious start confirms that the Egyptians must also be counted among the contenders.Despite an obvious dominance in the first half, Egypt was caught…
In the first match of Group B held on December 22 at the Grand Stadium of Marrakech, South Africa secured a valuable victory against Angola (2-1). Trailing after the opening goal from the Palancas Negras, the South Africans responded with determination thanks to Oswin Appollis and a stunning curled strike from Lyle Foster late in the match.This solid collective performance shows that the Bafana Bafana, who finished third in the last edition, are ready to play the role of party spoilers. Angola, despite a good fighting spirit, will regret this setback which already places them under pressure for the upcoming…
Mali and Zambia ended in a draw (1-1) on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Mohammed V Complex in Casablanca, during the first day of Group A, which includes Morocco. This result keeps the Atlas Lions at the top of the group following their opening victory. The Eagles long believed they were on their way to a valuable win thanks to Lassine Sinayoko, who scored in the 61st minute. However, Zambia snatched an equalizer in the dying moments, with Patson Daka finding the net in stoppage time (90+2), securing an important point. The match could have tilted earlier in favor…
Voted the best African player of 2025, Achraf Hakimi was rested during the opening match despite having no ankle pain. As a precaution, the medical staff and the national coach chose not to take any unnecessary risks to eliminate any threat of relapse at the start of the competition. Present on the bench, the captain of the Atlas Lions was nonetheless honored by receiving his trophy before kick-off, amidst the cheers of the crowd, before reiterating in a press conference his absolute priority: “If I have to not play for the team to win, I will. I think about the…
The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) was launched with great fanfare at a memorable opening ceremony at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, despite heavy rain that did not deter the 65,000 spectators. Artistic performances blending Moroccan and African culture captivated the audience, featuring guests such as French Montana, Lartiste, and Angélique Kidjo. Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan kicked off the event in the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and numerous dignitaries.Described as “the most beautiful in history” by several observers, this ceremony highlighted the unity of the continent and Morocco’s ambition as the host nation.…
Brahim Diaz was named man of the match by CAF after Morocco’s victory over Comoros (2-0) in the opening match of CAN 2025. The Real Madrid midfielder, who scored the tournament’s first goal in the 55th minute, was decisive in a match that was tightly contested for a long time. Versatile and impactful, Diaz earned a penalty in the first half (missed by Rahimi) and constantly troubled the Comorian defense. His powerful shot from the penalty spot, following a pass from Mazraoui, liberated the Lions of the Atlas and the entire stadium. At 26 years old, Brahim is confirming his…