Futsal Star Charraoui Chooses Morocco Over Netherlands, Sparking Controversy

Born in Rotterdam, Soufiane Charraoui preferred to defend the colors of the Moroccan flag rather than play for the Netherlands after his first call-up with the Dutch national team for a friendly match against Belgium as part of the preparations for Euro Futsal 2022. This provoked the anger of the Dutch. The 27-year-old player spoke about the choice of his sports nationality. "I made this decision with emotion. Morocco is my country. I am with them in my heart. All my friends in the Netherlands are Moroccans and they are very proud of me," he said to the media.

Since then, Charraoui has been shining with the Moroccan futsal team. He is one of the architects of Morocco’s victories in the two Arab Cups won in 2022 and 2023 in Saudi Arabia and the third African title of the Atlas Lions. He is the top scorer of the African Futsal Cup of Nations that took place in Morocco with 7 goals. To his credit, 31 goals scored for the national team. The style of play of the 27-year-old player fascinates football lovers. He knows how to create good connections with his teammates. He is capable of eliminating two or three players with a single pass and scoring goals. He is the essential element that the national futsal team coach Hicham Dguig will be able to count on for the next World Cup to be held in Uzbekistan from September 14 to October 6, 2024.