Morocco coach Walid Regragui denies resignation after AFCON final loss to Senegal, with FRMF confirming his continuation ahead of World Cup qualifiers

Walid Regragui, coach of the Moroccan national football team, has denied reports of his resignation following the Atlas Lions’ 1-0 extra-time defeat to Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.

Also read: Morocco confirmed as 2026 WAFCON host, says South Africa

The speculation emerged after Regragui reportedly submitted his resignation to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), taking responsibility for Morocco’s loss at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18.

Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in the 94th minute, ending Morocco’s hopes of claiming their first AFCON title since 1976.

The match featured a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time, which Brahim Díaz failed to convert, allowing Senegal to secure the victory in extra time.

Despite reports from French outlet Foot Mercato that Regragui had sought to step down, the FRMF categorically rejected the claims as “false,” stressing the need for stability ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The federation praised Regragui’s contributions, highlighting his role in Morocco becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2022.

Regragui’s tenure has been widely recognised for transforming Moroccan football, though the final defeat and an early exit in the 2023 AFCON have sparked media calls for his departure.

Speculation has also linked him to potential club opportunities in Saudi Arabia, adding to uncertainty about his future.

Also read: AFCON Morocco 2025 sets unprecedented digital engagement record

FRMF president Fouzi Lekjaa held meetings reviewing the AFCON campaign, acknowledging areas for improvement while emphasising continuity to meet the expectations of fans and stakeholders.