Morocco's head coach Walid Regragui has firmly rejected conspiracy theories suggesting referees are favoring the host team at the Africa Cup of Nations. He spoke out against these claims during a press conference in Rabat on Tuesday.
Regragui Calls for Fair Play and Support
Regragui expressed disappointment with those pushing the narrative of biased officiating. He emphasized that such theories undermine the spirit of the game. "It's always a shame to go down this path," Regragui stated. "They want to make people believe matches are always won this way. Let's not kid ourselves."
He pointed out that controversies over refereeing decisions are not unique to Africa. Regragui watches many matches due to his players competing in Europe. He noted that similar debates occur everywhere. "A penalty can be given one way in one match and not in another," he explained. "A handball is called in one match and not in another. The controversies are the same everywhere, in Africa or in Europe."
Examples of Decisions Against Morocco
Despite his defense of referees, Regragui highlighted incidents where he felt Morocco did not get favorable calls. He cited two specific moments from their 2-0 quarterfinal victory over Cameroon on Friday.
- One incident involved a Cameroon defender stepping on Abde Ezzalzouli's ankle. Regragui argued that a VAR review should have awarded a penalty.
- Another saw the goalkeeper challenge Ismael Saibari with both hands to the head, which Regragui also deemed a penalty.
"Neither were given," Regragui remarked, illustrating his point that refereeing inconsistencies affect all teams.
Focus on the Pitch, Not Controversy
Regragui has instructed his players to ignore any refereeing disputes. He stressed that success comes from performance on the field. "The only way to win is on the pitch, by winning our matches," he asserted. "You've never heard me talk about the refereeing after a match."
He called for collective support for officials and players alike. "We take responsibility, we move forward, and we work hard. That's the goal," Regragui said. "We need to support the referees, the players, and stop always feeling like we're being wronged."
Looking ahead to the semi-final against Nigeria on Wednesday, Regragui expressed hope for fair treatment. "We hope the referee will be fair to both teams tomorrow, as he has been since the start of the competition," he concluded.
