Regragui Hits Back at ‘Home Advantage’ Claims: ‘Journalists Do Your Job’

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has dismissed suggestions that referees are favouring the host nation at the Africa Cup of Nations, calling such claims “a shame” and urging journalists to stick to the facts.

Some pundits and fans online have accused tournament officials of showing leniency towards Morocco, but Regragui was quick to pour cold water on the conspiracy theories during Tuesday’s press conference ahead of their semifinal clash with Nigeria in Rabat.

“It’s always a shame to go down this path,” Regragui said.

“They want people to believe matches are won this way. Let’s not kid ourselves, on this continent, there’s always an attempt to sow doubt and controversy. You journalists need to do your job.”

The Atlas Lions boss argued that refereeing inconsistencies are part of football everywhere, not just in Africa.

“A penalty can be given in one match and not in another. A handball is called here and missed there. I watch plenty of games in Europe, and the same controversies exist.”

Regragui insisted officials are doing their best and even highlighted moments where Morocco felt hard done by in their 2-0 quarterfinal win over Cameroon.

“One defender stepped on Abde Ezzalzouli’s ankle if VAR checks, that’s a penalty. The goalkeeper came out and put both hands on Saibari’s head, another penalty. Neither was given.”

The coach said he has told his players to ignore the noise and focus on performance.

“The only way to win is on the pitch. You’ve never heard me complain about refereeing after a match. We take responsibility, move forward, and work hard. That’s the goal.”

Regragui closed by calling for fairness and unity.

“We need to support referees and players instead of feeling wronged. We hope tomorrow’s referee will be fair to both teams, as they have been since the start of the competition.”