2024 Olympics: Walid Regragui singled out after the elimination of the U23 team – Media7
Walid Regragui, coach of the Moroccan national team, is at the heart of the controversy after the defeat of the U23 Olympic team against Spain in the semi-finals of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His constant presence with the team has sparked a wave of criticism on social networks, where Moroccan fans are expressing their discontent.
Regragui has been seen several times with the Olympic team, whether at the hotel, during training, in the stands, and even on the field after matches. This proximity is perceived as interference in the affairs of the head coach, Tarek Sektioui, and as a disruption of the latter’s work with the young Lionceaux.
The outrage reached its peak after Regragui was seen talking to the players during halftime of the match against Spain. At that time, the Moroccan team was leading by one goal, but ended up conceding two goals in the second half, losing the match. Netizens wondered what instructions Regragui could have given to cause the team to collapse like this.
This situation recalls the separation with the former coach, Issam Charai, who had led the team to victory in the U23 Africa Cup of Nations and qualification for the Olympic Games. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation had explained this change by a new approach aimed at strengthening coordination between the different technical staffs of the national teams.
Sources had indicated at the time that the current Olympic team formed the core of the future national team, requiring close collaboration with Regragui. However, this strategy is strongly contested by some fans, who see it as harmful interference.
Despite the controversy, the Moroccan Olympic team will play in the bronze medal match next Thursday in Nantes. Fans hope the Lionceaux can focus on that goal and overcome the criticism.
In conclusion, Walid Regragui’s presence on the Olympic team divides opinions. While some believe that he plays a crucial role in the future of Moroccan football, others consider that his involvement goes too far. The team’s performance in the next match will be decisive in assessing the relevance of this contested strategy.
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