Morocco v Tunisia: Atlas Lions Continue AFCON Preparations with North African Derby
Morocco take on Tunisia in Fès on Friday night as Walid Regragui's side step up their preparations for next year's Africa Cup of Nations on home soil.
Kick-off set for 9 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1) at the Grand Stade de Fès, and fans can catch the action live on Arriyadia HD.
The match may be classed as a friendly, but there is nothing relaxed about the mood in either camp. Expectations are high, and the Atlas Lions will want to put in a convincing performance in front of their fans.
Regragui is without two key attacking players, with Brahim Diaz and Abde Ezzalzouli ruled out through injury. Their absence could open the door for younger names like Bilal El Khannouss, Elias Ben Seghir and Amir Richardson to stake a claim.
Morocco's recent displays have raised questions about their attacking rhythm and overall intensity. After a flat showing in the last international window, the pressure is on to show signs of improvement, particularly with the AFCON now less than six months away.
The hosts are likely to stick with a core of experienced players, including Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd and Youssef En-Nesyri. However, there is growing demand for more variety in midfield and greater fluidity in the final third.
Morocco (expected XI) : Bounou; Hakimi, Yamiq, Massina, Belammari; Amrabat, Ounahi, El Khannouss; Rahimi, En-Nesyri, Ben Seghir.
Prediction : Morocco 2-0 Tunisia – tight contest, but home advantage and Morocco's squad quality should make the difference. Tags: Achraf HakimiMoroccoTunisiaWalid Regraguiyassine bounou
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