Ahead of the World Cup, there was speculation about this year's 'dark horse' - a team that would have a surprisingly optimistic run in the tournament. Not only did Morocco take that mantle, but they also broke the glass ceiling for what it means to be a dark horse.
Although Morocco were knocked out by France last night, they will leave the tournament with their heads held high, having achieved the unthinkable. The story of Morocco 2022 will be told in decades to come.
(Morocco have earned the respect of the footballing world )
It all started in the group stage when they showcased a valiant fight against the previous World Cup finalists, Croatia, and held them to a scoreless draw. Then followed it up with a startling 2-0 victory over Belgium that caught everyone's attention. And put the icing on the cake with a commanding 2-1 win against the Canadians - to finish first in the group.
Many predicted that Morocco's knockout stage journey would be short-lived as they played against the world's elite. But they defied expectations again when they played Spain, one of the tournament favorites, in the round of 16.
The men in red and green held a 0-0 scoreline for 120 minutes against the Spaniards through resolute defending and an unwavering spirit. In the penalty shootout, the Moroccans manifested their resolve by scoring all three spot kicks and their goalkeeper Yassine Bounou doing his part on the other end.
Everyone thought Morocco had reached the summit, but Walid Regragui and his boys believed they could lift off.
(The African-Arab nation showed that they belong on the world stage)
The challenge ahead was a Portuguese team showered with talented footballers in all areas of the field, especially in attack. The star-studded squad included Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao, Joao Felix, Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo, Goncalo Ramos, Cristiano Ronaldo, and more. It seemed a step maybe too far even for this stubborn Moroccan defence.
But yet again, they would not falter.
After going a goal up in the 42nd minute through Youssef En-Nesyri, the Moroccans were iron-willed to make it to the semi-finals to become the first African nation to accomplish this feat.
And Morocco did so. They created history.
(En-Nesyri took flight and leaped over the Portuguese goalkeeper to score the winning goal for his country)
Heading into a clash with the reigning World Cup champions, Morocco were fearless - their coach encapsulated the team's mentality in the pre-match press conference.
"It's getting more complicated as it goes on. We are going to play against the champions, with great players and the best coach in the world. We believe we can go through, and why not win the World Cup? We are not tired, I want to make it clear, we are going to run."
"I have told them that we have come to change the mentality of our continent. We didn't get here by chance, but I told them that we can't be complacent. We're confident, and we've had the most difficult journey. We have been eliminated many times, and we are still here. We are going to fight to move forward, for the African countries, for the Arab world," said Regragui.
Morocco entered the battlefield with their nation and more behind them, oozing confidence. But their night ended in disappointment after going toe-to-toe against France.
A two-goal defeat put an end to their extraordinary World Cup run, but the players should be proud of what they achieved because they accomplished something beyond football.
They inspired generations of African and Arab boys and girls to do the undoable. Break all limits and voyage into uncharted waters without fear. And showed that with unity, no task is unattainable.
(Sofiane Boufal celebrated with his mother after Morocco beat Portugal 1-0)
Morocco's performance in this World Cup epitomizes its people - hardworking individuals that are selfless and willing to sacrifice anything for the benefit of the many. A community with an unbending mentality that is prepared to go to great lengths to achieve special feats. And most importantly, a group of people that fight for each other.
That is Morocco, and that is what they represent.
There is so much this team has taught the world, but if there is one message that symbolizes Morocco, it is that the impossible is truly nothing.
Comments