Saudi sports journalist Mohammed Al Toueijri said Morocco “gave up” the Africa Cup of Nations title to avoid what he described as a worse scenario, following the national team’s early exit from AFCON 2023.
In comments that sparked debate among fans, Al Toueijri argued that Morocco’s elimination was not only a sporting disappointment, but also spared the team from heavier pressure and consequences that could have come later in the tournament.
He explained that expectations around Walid Regragui’s side were huge after the historic run at the 2022 World Cup, and that the burden of chasing the continental crown had become intense.
Al Toueijri added that the way Morocco left the competition was painful, but in his view it prevented “something worse” from happening, without detailing exactly what that worse outcome would have been.
Morocco were among the favourites for the title in Côte d’Ivoire, but their campaign ended earlier than expected, prompting widespread reactions and criticism as the team turned its focus to what comes next.
