Two years after the memorable epic of the Atlas Lions during the 2022 World Cup, Walid Regragui returned to a key moment in their journey: the historic victory against Spain in the round of 16 (0-0, 3-0 tab). In an interview given to France Footballthe Moroccan coach revealed unique behind-the-scenes insights, notably on the psychological approach which galvanized his team to overthrow one of the giants of world football.
December 6, 2022 will remain legendary for Moroccan football. That day, the Atlas Lions created a surprise by eliminating Spain, the 2010 world champion, after an intense match concluded with a controlled penalty shootout. Considered the outsiders, the Moroccans defied all predictions thanks to mental preparation carefully developed by their coach.
A rumor transformed into a driving force
Regragui cleverly used a rumor to fuel his group’s motivation. According to this theory, Spain deliberately finished second in their group to avoid Brazil in the quarter-finals, believing that Morocco would be an easier opponent in the round of 16. “They took us for charlots“, slipped the Moroccan technician in front of his group.
By instilling this sense of injustice, Regragui triggered a powerful emotional response in his players. Inspired by the techniques of great coaches like José Mourinho, he was able to transform a supposed affront into a source of collective motivation.
The fight against “inner devil“
In his pre-match speech, Walid Regragui also mentioned a concept that left its mark: “interior sheitan“. He warned his players against this little inner voice that arises with fatigue, encouraging them to relax their efforts:
« I spoke to them about the sheitan, this little inner devil who will emerge with fatigue and who will tell them: what is the point of going the 3 meters to close the space? And when they feel this sheitan coming, they will have to think of me and the fact that it is on these details that their place in history will be decided. »
This speech illustrates Regragui’s ability to transcend the simple tactical framework to touch the emotions and psychology of his players. This message, both simple and impactful, pushed the Lions of the Atlas to surpass their limits and deliver a heroic performance in the face of Roja.
A historical African epic
This victory against Spain was just one step in a legendary journey. In the quarter-finals, Morocco eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup. Although beaten by Francethe Atlas Lions left the competition with honors, marking the history of world football forever.
With this unforgettable adventure, Walid Regragui and his team not only transcended expectations, but also redefined the ambitions of African football on the international stage.
