“We respectfully but firmly reject these comments,” these authorities indicated in a joint press release published on the website of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).
“For our countries, no football match World Cup is of no importance,” they said, adding that “for Cape Verde, Curaçao, and Uzbekistan, qualification for the FIFA World Cup represents a historic achievement and the realization of a dream shared by generations.”
“For nations like Congo and Haiti, the return to football’s biggest stage after a long absence has special meaning for millions of supporters who have waited years, even decades, for this moment,” says the same source.
The authorities said that “to suggest that these matches are in any way less important is deeply disappointing and shows a lack of recognition of the efforts, sacrifices and aspirations of players, coaches, clubs, managers and fans around the world.”
They note that “behind each qualification lie years of work and investment. Behind every national team are entire communities and millions of people for whom football is a source of pride, hope and unity.”
“Football does not belong to a select group of nations. Its strength lies in its universality. The FIFA World Cup is the greatest football competition in the world precisely because it brings together different cultures, histories and footballing backgrounds,” the statement said.
“For many countries, participating in the FIFA World Cup is not just a sporting achievement. It is a moment that inspires a generation, accelerates the development of football and creates lasting memories and we believe that every qualifying nation deserves respect. Each team earned its place on its own merits. Every supporter has the right to dream. Each match has a special meaning for millions of people around the world,” said the source.
“We therefore reject the comments of the UEFA President and reaffirm our conviction that the development of football must continue to create opportunities, inspire new generations and strengthen the truly global dimension of our sport,” indicate the federal authorities, placing particular emphasis on the fact that each team qualified on merit and each match counts.
