Morocco manager Walid Regragui has been handed a four-match ban following an altercation with DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba during their Africa Cup of Nations clash. The incident occurred after the Atlas Lions drew 1-1 with DR Congo, leading to a heated exchange between Regragui and Mbemba. The altercation continued into the tunnel, involving players and staff from both teams.

While two of Regragui’s match bans have been suspended for a year, he will miss the Atlas Lions’ next two matches. Regragui expressed regret over the incident, stating that he held Mbemba’s hand, but things escalated as seen in pictures and videos. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is investigating the post-match incidents.

Regragui was absent from the touchline in Morocco’s subsequent game against Zambia, where they won 1-0 to top Group F. Despite the coach’s regret, the CAF imposed fines on both federations and Regragui. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation plans to appeal, claiming the decision was unfair, as they believe Regragui did not violate fair play values.

Mbemba, addressing the media after the game, expressed respect for Regragui but mentioned having videos that were not shown on TV. Regragui responded, recounting the situation, alleging disrespectful behavior from Mbemba during the match and defending his actions during the post-match handshake.