RABAT (AFP) -- Morocco can win the 2008 African Nations Cup to add to their sole success in the continent's football showpiece in 1976 claimed veteran striker Youssef Hadji on Sunday.

The Atlas Lions have an amazingly poor record in the tournament despite their reputation as one of Africa's powerhouses, having appeared in just one other final, losing to hosts Tunisia in 2004.
However, both Hadji and fellow striker Marouane Chamakh claim that this squad have matured at the right time and were ready to put aside memories of failing to make the 2006 World Cup finals and bowing out in the first phase at the last African Nations Cup in Egypt.
""When one sees how we have performed in the friendly matches we have every right to dream about winning the African Nations Cup,"" Hadji told Moroccan daily Tel Quel.
""We know what our qualities are, we have players who really are coming into explosive form at the moment.
""Every one is in top form, but this time round, our opponents are awaiting us,"" added the 27-year-old, who plays for French First Division side Nancy.
Hadji said the players had a extra motivation because they felt they had been wronged in previous competitions.
""Yes I feel we are out for revenge,"" he said.
""We did well in 2004 but we slipped up in 2006 both in the African Nations Cup and the World Cup qualifiers.
""However regarding the World Cup qualifiers, I believe we were undone more by our match with Kenya (the Moroccans believed they were victims of biased refereeing) than against Tunisia (who qualified for the World Cup finals in their place).
""Today we have an opportunity to redress that and we are aware of that.""
For Chamakh's part, it was a case that the group of players had grown up together and grown stronger in adversity.
""I think that yes we have a real chance,"" admitted the 23-year-old Bordeaux striker.
""We have almost the same squad as 2004, but everyone has more experience.
""But when one looks at the squad and witness their mental state, I am confident,"" added the France-born hitman, who made his debut for Bordeaux back in 2002 but who has only scored twice in 16 league appearances this term.
Morocco are in Group A based in Accra along with hosts Ghana, dark horses and 2006 quarterfinalists Guinea and minnows Namibia.
The tournament runs from January 20 to February 10.