Atlas Lions Roar into Action: Regragui Announces Squad for Gabon Clash
Anticipation is building as Morocco’s Atlas Lions prepare to kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Gabon. Coach Walid Regragui has announced his starting lineup for the crucial match, set to unfold at the Grand Stade d’Agadir.
Regragui, known for his tactical prowess, has opted for a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. This strategy mirrors the team’s recent success, with Morocco becoming the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals in 2022.
Guarding the Den:
Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou (Sevilla FC) - A stalwart presence between the posts, Bounou brings a wealth of experience from top-tier European football.
Defensive Wall:
Right-back: Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) – A dynamic and attack-minded full-back, Hakimi is a key weapon in Morocco’s arsenal.
Center-back: Nayef Aguerd (West Ham United) – Aguerd’s strength and aerial ability make him a formidable opponent.
Center-back: Yahya Attiat Allah (Wydad AC) - A rising star in Moroccan football, Attiat Allah brings his defensive solidity to the backline.
Left-back: Noussair Mazraoui (Bayern Munich) – Mazraoui’s tactical awareness and overlapping runs provide an additional attacking threat.
Midfield Maestros:
Defensive Midfielder: Sofyan Amrabat (Manchester United) - A tenacious ball-winner, Amrabat provides a crucial shield for the defense.
Attacking Midfielder: Azzedine Ounahi (Olympique de Marseille) – Ounahi’s creativity and vision will be instrumental in unlocking the Gabonese defense.
Attacking Prowess:
Winger: Hakim Ziyech (Chelsea FC) – Known for his mesmerizing dribbling skills and eye for goal, Ziyech is a constant threat to any opposition.
Striker: Youssef En-Nesyri (Sevilla FC) – En-Nesyri’s aerial prowess and clinical finishing make him a potent goal-scoring threat.
Striker: Sofiane Boufal (Al-Rayyan SC) – Boufal’s trickery and unpredictability add another dimension to Morocco’s attack.
* Attacking Midfielder: Bilal El Khannouss (KRC Genk) – A rising star in Belgian football, El Khannouss brings his technical ability and passing range to the midfield.
The Atlas Lions are eager to replicate their recent success on the continental stage. With a strong squad and the unwavering support of their fans, they are poised to make a powerful statement in their quest for Africa Cup of Nations glory.
