Atlas Lions Roar Back: Sektioui hails Morocco’s mental strength after Zambia triumph
At the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on Thursday night, Morocco rediscovered their winning spark in emphatic fashion.
Just days after a shock 1-0 loss to Kenya, the Atlas Lions A’ roared back to life with a 3-1 victory over Zambia in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) — a result that not only steadied their campaign but put them firmly back in the hunt for a quarter-final place.
A Victory Built on Resilience
Head coach Tarik Sektioui could barely hide his pride at full-time, praising the professionalism and determination of his squad in navigating a tricky fixture.
“We have an admirable squad that I salute for their professionalism and their mental strength. We ‘called on them for help’ for this CHAN and they responded despite the lack of preparation and the complicated situation. Despite everything, their level is good and we collected 6 points,” he said, underlining his admiration for the players’ character.
For Sektioui, the win wasn’t just about three points — it was about the squad’s ability to respond to adversity.
“I am happy with this victory, and happy with the playing time some players have received. I warmly salute them. In times of difficulty, they have shown themselves to be great. Psychologically, mentally…”
Navigating a Dangerous Opponent
Although Zambia came into the game already under pressure after two straight defeats, Sektioui knew the threat they posed.
“It was not easy to approach a match against a team that had suffered two defeats in a row. We expected a reaction. The tactical discipline and technical quality of our players played a role. We missed many opportunities but we have moved forward since the defeat against Kenya. This time the danger came from everywhere in our attack,” he explained.
That attacking variety was on full display. Goals from Mohamed Hrimat, Oussama Lamlaoui, and Sabir Bougrine sealed the points, with the Moroccan defence standing firm despite Zambia’s spirited push.
Strong Minds, Strong Finish
Sektioui emphasised that the mental approach of his side made all the difference.
“The players were mentally strong and managed this match well to achieve this deserved victory,” he stressed.
“The players showed up. I salute their determination and their will to win.”
He highlighted that the Atlas Lions found the right rhythm in both phases of the match.
“We had a good start and a good finish to the match. The game was very difficult because Zambia’s attacking team was threatening on several occasions.
"The players, thanks to their individual qualities and tactical discipline, were there in this match,” he noted, adding, “we missed a lot of chances, but we were better in zone three compared to the last match against Kenya.”
Eyes on DR Congo
With six points from three matches, Morocco now face DR Congo in a decisive group finale. Both sides are level on points, setting up a high-stakes clash.
“For us, it’s simple, we have to win this match and the work will start tomorrow because we don’t have much time,” Sektioui said, making clear his focus on the next challenge.
The winner will almost certainly secure a prime position heading into the knockouts, while Kenya’s parallel fixture against Zambia will also have a say in the quarter-final lineup.
A Statement Win with a Warning
Morocco’s performance was a statement of intent — but also a reminder that fine margins define tournament football.
Against Zambia, they combined tactical discipline, mental strength, and a diversified attack. Against DR Congo, the stakes will be even higher.
For now, Sektioui’s men have given themselves the platform to dream again, and in the coach’s words, they have shown that when called upon, they will respond.