Morocco coach Regragui given two-match ban at Cup of Nations
Morocco coach Walid Regragui has been handed a two-match by the Confederation of African Football following a post-match altercation with Democratic Republic of Congo captain Chancel Mbemba at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) revealed Regragui's ban in a statement published on Wednesday, while confirming they intended to appeal.
The statement said the FRMF had "decided to appeal this incomprehensible decision due to the fact that Regragui did not at any point contravene the spirit of fair play".
Walid Regragui went up straight against Mbemba when he was on his knees praying. This is where everything started. #AFCON2023 #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 #AfconwithMicky pic.twitter.com/382qNXLVe0 — Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) January 21, 2024
However, Regragui's ban was effective for Wednesday's final Cup of Nations group game against Zambia, with assistant coach Rachid Benmahmoud taking his place on the bench.
The 2022 World Cup semifinalists were already assured of a place in the next round before facing Zambia.
The incident between Regragui and Mbemba came as players and staff from both sides brawled at the end of the 1-1 draw between Morocco and DR Congo in San-Pedro on Sunday,
Regragui entered the pitch and appeared to have strong words with Marseille defender Mbemba, while also attempting to shake the player's hand.
The two men then had to be separated by several people.
Read on supersport.com
