Raja mentor hails Morocco’s infrastructure as key driver of AFCON quality

With government bodies, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and key financial partners working in tandem to upgrade facilities for the continental showpiece, Wilken says the primary beneficiaries have been the national teams themselves.

Speaking to SABC Sport in Casablanca, the coach shared his perspective on the tournament, observing the competition from the sidelines.

"Morocco has done fantastically well with their preparation of the surfaces we are playing on, we are playing at world-class stadiums, and this lends itself to a higher quality of football that is played on the pitch. 

"It hasn't been a tournament of upsets, I think we've seen all the strong teams come and perform at the highest level."

READ: Junior Onana accepts underdog tag as Cameroon face hosts in Rabat

Wilken adds that it’s little surprise European scouts take a keen interest during AFCON, knowing the tournament offers exceptional value.

Having followed Fadlu Davids around the continent, Wilken has also been exposed to different styles but believes PSL players are still unique.

"South African players are unique. They are unique in their skillset and their bravery on the ball. They've always got that special moment within them. We have developed something special in our league and in our style of play, and I think the market is leaning more towards that."

Wilken, 31, also touched on his own personal growth in the game.

"The last couple of years have really pushed us into multi-cultural changing rooms, and we've really tried to focus on getting our message across in different languages over the last couple of years. We've been in dressing rooms where there are twelve different nationalities and you need to find a way to present your message to the whole team."