Moroccan international Shams Eddine Talbi confirmed that the national team is entering a pivotal phase in the coming months, coinciding with preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to be held in Morocco, followed by the anticipated participation in the 2026 World Cup.

The Sunderland defender stated in an interview with Canal+ Afrique: "We are facing major challenges, the most important of which is the Africa Cup that will take place in our country, in addition to the preparations for the World Cup. We will do everything we can to win the continental title, despite the difficulty of the task and the strong competition."

Talbi praised coach Walid Regragui, saying: "Regragui is like a father within the team; he works with great passion, and his instructions are always well thought out and not random."

He added: "He often uses impactful video clips that show the passion of Moroccan fans, even the elderly who come to the stadium with enthusiasm, to strengthen the fighting spirit within the group."

The Kingdom of Morocco is preparing to host the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in a historic football event expected to witness record attendance and broad official support.