2023 Africa Cup of Nations: Can Morocco Secure the Title?
As we eagerly await the kick-off of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), all eyes are on Morocco, a team that has recently made significant strides in international football. With their impressive run at the FIFA World Cup last year, where they reached the semi-finals and finished in third place, expectations for Afcon glory are high.
Aiming to Rewrite History
Morocco is no stranger to continental success, having claimed their first and only African title back in 1976. However, since then, they have been plagued by disappointment and missed opportunities. Yet now, with Captain Romain Saiss leading the charge, there is renewed hope that this talented squad can emulate past glories.
An Elevated Standard
Saiss acknowledges that reaching such lofty heights brings about a change in expectations. The Moroccan team understands that maintaining this level of performance is crucial for continued growth and development within their country’s footballing landscape.
Genuine Belief as Responsibility
The pressure to succeed doesn’t faze Saiss; instead, he considers it more as a responsibility. Having experienced a taste of success at the World Cup stage, his hunger for further achievements drives him forward.
Favorites or Underdogs?
Despite being ranked at an impressive position globally (13th), Saiss humbly dismisses claims that Morocco are outright favorites to win Afcon. He believes Ivory Coast carries greater burden due to playing on home soil while highlighting the formidable competition posed by other strong African nations like Senegal, Cameroon, Algeria and Egypt.
A Distant Final
It has been almost two decades since Morocco last reached an Afcon final in 2004 when they faced a defeat against Tunisia. The team’s lack of success in recent editions is well-documented with three consecutive knockout stage exits. However, Saiss maintains that past disappointments have only made them stronger and more prepared for the unpredictable nature of this tournament.
The Danger Within Every Game
With Zambia as one of their group opponents – who surprisingly won the Afcon title in 2012 – Saiss acknowledges that underestimating any team would be a grave mistake. He emphasizes on maintaining focus and taking each game as it comes without getting ahead of themselves.
A Challenge Worth Suffering For
Saiss understands the importance of being mentally prepared to endure tough challenges throughout the tournament. With memories from their successful World Cup campaign still fresh, he believes that collective sacrifice will play a pivotal role in achieving greatness at Afcon.