A few moments after the victorious shot on goal transformed by Ismaël Saibarithe main cities of the Kingdom fell into a night of celebration. The avenues, public squares and main thoroughfares were quickly filled with supporters dressed in red, brandishing the national flag and chanting songs in praise of the Lions of the Atlas.
HAS Casablancatraffic gradually stopped on the main boulevards, notably on Boulevard Zerktouni, Boulevard de la Corniche and on the Place des Nations Nations, where thousands of supporters celebrated this qualification in a euphoric atmosphere. Horns, smoke bombs, patriotic songs and ululations punctuated a long night of festivities.
Same fervor to Rabatwhere supporters gathered on the main arteries of the capital, notably around Avenue Mohammed V, Bab El Had and the Hassan Tower. Families, young and old alike shared their joy in a festive atmosphere, saluting the combativeness and mentality of Mohamed Ouahbi’s men.
HAS Marrakechthe famous Jamaâ El Fna square once again became the scene of a huge popular celebration. Tourists and residents witnessed a scene of communion where Moroccan flags flew to the rhythm of the supporters’ songs, while the cafes broadcasting the meeting were full until late at night.
HAS Agadirthe celebrations continued until dawn. As soon as the victorious penalty was awarded, the main avenues of the capital of Souss were invaded by thousands of supporters. Red jerseys and Moroccan flags colored the streets in an atmosphere combining emotion, patriotism and confidence in the ability of the Atlas Lions to continue their global adventure. Several supporters interviewed praised the tactical discipline, determination and mental strength of the national selection, believing that Morocco now confirms its status among the great footballing nations.
The same fervor was expressed several thousand kilometers from the Kingdom. HAS new Yorkhundreds of Moroccans met in Times Square, transformed, for one evening, into a real Moroccan celebration square. Draped in the national colors, the supporters sang the national anthem, sang and ululated under the gaze of numerous tourists and passers-by. Moroccans from Brooklyn, Queens, New Jersey and Connecticut shared these moments of joy, joined by many Mexican supporters who celebrated this qualification in a spirit of brotherhood.
HAS Beijingdespite the time difference, the Moroccan community also mobilized to experience this decisive meeting. Gathered at the initiative of the Moroccan embassy in a hotel in the Chinese capital, students, researchers, academics and members of the diaspora followed the meeting on the big screen. After a match full of twists and turns, the penalty shootout increased the tension before exploding into immense joy when Ismaël Saibari’s victorious penalty sent Morocco into the round of 16. Hugs, songs, flags and tears of emotion marked this morning like no other, concluded around a Moroccan breakfast offered to the participants.
Beyond the sporting performance, this qualification once again illustrated the capacity of the Atlas Lions to unite Moroccans from the four corners of the world. In the streets of the Kingdom as well as within communities established abroad, this victory has rekindled a powerful sense of belonging and national pride.
Carried by this dynamic, the Moroccan selection will now continue its global adventure with a round of 16 against Canada, with the ambition of writing a new page in its history and prolonging a dream shared by an entire people.
