Mazraoui: "Many Players Accustomed to Pressure, AFCON 2025 is Our Moment to Shine"

Morocco international Noussair Mazraoui, a Bayern Munich player, expressed his excitement about participating in the Africa Cup of Nations, noting that this edition represents a golden opportunity for the "Atlas Lions" to shine.

Speaking to his club's official website, Mazraoui said: "Honestly, I can't wait. I'm really looking forward to these two big tournaments, especially since the Africa Cup of Nations is being held in our country. Yes, this is the right moment to shine, and everyone expects a lot from us."

Speaking about the World Cup, Mazraoui added: "The World Cup is always a special event, but after what we achieved in the last edition, we are now seen as a strong team, not just a dark horse. This is great because fans and other teams will respect us now."

The Bayern Munich player noted that Morocco has not won the Africa Cup of Nations for a long time: "As I said, it's been a long time since we won the Africa Cup of Nations; I think our last title win was 40 years ago, if not more."

The player explained that the current national team is balanced and ready for the challenge: "We have a great team and a fantastic group of players. We performed brilliantly in the World Cup, of course, and I believe we have improved even further and are on the right track. The qualifying matches were beneficial for us, but ultimately, results in a major tournament like this are what matter most."

Regarding how he handles pressure in big matches, he said: "I am calm on the pitch because I have been through many situations where the pressure was immense. So I think going through such moments makes me, I don't want to say immune to pressure, but it makes me know exactly what to do when the pressure intensifies. So, yes, I think that's why I remain calm even in times of great pressure. I can execute the instructions required of me without being affected by the pressure."

Mazraoui pointed to the experience some players in the team possess: "We have quite a few experienced players. Myself, Hakimi, and Bounou, of course. In midfield, we have Amrabat, and in defense, we have Nayef Aguerd. Many players are accustomed to playing under pressure."

He also spoke about integrating young players into the team: "We have some vibrant young players; we know them well and understand how important that is, and they are very happy to join the national team, and you can clearly see that. So, yes, I think we have the optimal balance. Brahim Díaz is also there, of course. We currently have top-level players."

Finally, Mazraoui praised the recent achievement of the Moroccan youth national team: "Yes, this is a great achievement and truly great work from them. I am very proud of them, and this is sufficient proof of the tremendous development of football in Morocco."