Morocco coach Walid Regragui has taken full responsibility for his team's surprise Africa Cup of Nations exit after a round-16 defeat to South Africa, bemoaning their lack of cutting edge in Tuesday's 2-0 loss.
The Atlas Lions, one of the prestigious tournament favourites, became the latest high-profile team to crash-out from the competition as they spurned a few goal-scoring opportunities and were punished by South Africa at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro.
Bafana Bafana's Evidence Makgopa notched the opener in the 57th minute before Teboho Mokoena sealed the win in stoppage time, firing home a free kick awarded for a last-man foul that led to the dismissal of Morocco midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
"We could have maybe settled the game in the first half but, at this level, you get immediately punished for any chance you waste," Regragui told beIN Sports.
Morocco had a golden chance to draw level with five minutes remaining when they were awarded a penalty for a handball but Achraf Hakimi blasted his effort against the crossbar.
"The penalty hurt us a lot, and surely we didn't do everything that is required but I take full responsibility," Regragui added.
By: Pascal Amoah
