Issa Diop welcomed the challenge ahead of Morocco's clash with Lesotho in South Africa, calling it his first away match in Africa. "It's my first time in South Africa. It will also be my first away match in Africa. It's something new for me, and I'm really looking forward to taking on this challenge," the defender said at the pre-match press conference.
Morocco, ranked Africa's number one, arrives in Bloemfontein after opening their qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Gabon in Rabat. The Atlas Lions seek another positive result to build momentum in the AFCON 2027 qualifying rounds. Defender Nayef Aguerd remained in Morocco following recent surgery, with the coaching staff managing his gradual return to fitness rather than rushing him into competitive action.
The fixture takes place at the Free State Toyota Stadium because Lesotho does not have a CAF-approved stadium. Morocco's squad includes World Cup quarter-finalists such as Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz, Paris Saint-Germain's Achraf Hakimi, Bayern Munich's Ismael Saibari, and new Manchester City signing Ayyoub Bouaddi. Hakimi and Saibari return after missing the opening match due to suspension.
Diop stressed that discipline and focus will prove crucial as Morocco look to secure victory in an away fixture. "We know that away games in Africa are tough. I hope that tomorrow we'll put in a top-class performance and win the match," he said.