Memorable World Cup run bolsters Morocco’s clout

“Trailblazer”, “a record-breaker” and “watermark” these are the words used by the New York Times to describe Morocco’s unparalleled run in the World Cup as international media and millions of people around the world express admiration for the prowess of the North African team that reflects an image of a country that is willing to compete at the global stage with the elite at all levels.

Morocco has enchanted soccer fans from around the world by the skill and tirelessness of its players as well as the insight of their national coach.

Moroccan fans in the stadium impressed with their passion for the national team and for football as they gave a taste to the whole world of Moroccan chants and support till the last minute for the Atlas Lions.

The run of the squad led by former international player Walid Regragui was cheered across Africa, the Arab World, Muslim countries and even in countries where football is not very popular such as the US.

In an article entitled “Football Is Just A Tiny Proof Of Morocco’s Successes,” US outlet newslook writes “Even in the U.S., there have been major displays of support for the Atlas Lions. On the National Mall near the Lincoln Monument, there was a spontaneous gathering of Americans cheering the Moroccan victories.

As fans in Moroccan streets roar with joy, similar celebrations were echoed in Dakar, Abidjan as well as in Cairo, Gaza and Tel Aviv and elsewhere.

Morocco’s World Cup journey to the semifinals among the elite of global football will serve to give the kingdom more “legitimacy” in its quest to host both the African Cup of Nations in 2025 and the World Cup in 2030, Reuters news agency wrote citing sources from the Moroccan Royal Football Federation.

The Atlas Lions still have one more game to play with players determined to take the third place in a game that opposes them to Croatia which they had already held to a draw in the group stage.

But the main takeaway is what the coach has been reaffirming over and over Morocco and Africa have changed and they are not in World Cups to entertain and leave. The Atlas Lions will go with the same spirit to win!