Rabat – Moroccan international Noussair Mazraoui has underlined the weight of responsibility on the national team as they prepare to face Tanzania in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Speaking after the squad’s final training session, the Manchester United defender reminded fans of the long wait for continental glory. “There are no easy matches. We have not won the title in 50 years, and every team fights hard to succeed,” he said.
Mazraoui stressed his flexibility on the pitch, making clear he is ready to play wherever the coach needs him. “I don’t have a preferred position. Throughout my career, I’ve enjoyed playing in different roles.
The coach knows I can cover both sides, and I’m happy to do whatever helps the team,” he explained.
The defender also sent a heartfelt message to Moroccan supporters, urging them to stand behind the squad from start to finish. “We ask our fans to support us from the first minute until the last.
Even if we struggle, we need them to keep pushing us forward so we can bring them joy,” he said.
Looking ahead to the knockout stage, Mazraoui acknowledged that penalty shootouts could become part of the challenge.
He stressed the importance of mental preparation for all possible scenarios. “In these elimination matches, penalties are always a possibility. We must be mentally ready for whatever happens,” he noted.