Morocco’s journey over the past three weeks has bound together fans across the continent and beyond, igniting a collective dream of achieving the unthinkable. As Roman Saiss and the beloved Atlas Lions carved their names into the hearts of football enthusiasts worldwide by advancing to the FIFA World Cup semifinals for the first time as an African and Arab nation, Moroccans were overwhelmed with pride and joy that defied expression.
For over a year since Morocco’s captivating run in Qatar, which culminated in a commendable fourth-place finish, the Atlas Lions have been more than just a football team to their supporters. Their tight, strategically acute gameplay commanded respect as they stood their ground against much-favored European teams. Yet off the field, Moroccan fans held an even deeper appreciation for the team’s conduct.
The irresistible warmth of family celebrations at the team’s accommodations and the spontaneous expressions of faith left a profound impression. Head coach Walid Regragui even suggested that the joy of their parents played a role in their successful endeavors.
The people of Morocco still carry the memories of their team’s prowess and humanity. From sharing moments of joy with the coach in everyday settings to the team’s immediate humanitarian response following a devastating earthquake, the national team’s actions have inspired and uplifted the nation.
While many might have viewed Morocco’s World Cup success as a surprising twist, those within the Moroccan football circles like coach Karim Bencherifa saw it as the culmination of a burgeoning football movement that began years prior. The meticulous development of infrastructure, scouting systems, and youth talent, paired with global representations, laid the groundwork for what would become a historic chapter in Moroccan football.
With the prestigious Mohamed VI Complex serving the national team and the nation preparing to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025 and the FIFA World Cup in 2030, Morocco has no shortage of achievements. Their accolades span from the FIFA Women’s World Cup debut to multiple African Nations and Futsal Cup victories. Yet, there remains one elusive title, the Africa Cup of Nations, which has escaped the grasp of the senior men’s team since their only triumph in 1976.
(AFCON 2023 winners, courtesy of Al Jazeera)
With their recent World Cup semifinalist status, Morocco enters the AFCON arena as one of the favorites. Yet many acknowledge the stiff competition awaiting in Ivory Coast and speculate on tactical adjustments that may be imperative for success in an environment where possession play will likely dominate.
Despite the possibility of significant psychological pressures arising from such high expectations, Moroccan fans like Tom Yousef Drissi, based in Rabat, understand the magnitude of the tournament and wear their hopes on their sleeves for the national team to emerge victorious.
AFCON holds an almost mystical significance for Moroccans—a victory would not just be a mere sporting achievement, but a triumph that might ease the spirit of a nation holding its breath with anticipation.
