Morocco’s World Cup Success Fueled by Diverse Dual-National Talent

This role played by dual nationals from various backgrounds in the historic journey of the Atlas Lions, who reached the semi-finals of the World Cup, has helped deconstruct the concept of "borders" and revealed that dual nationals are true ambassadors of their countries of origin, analyzes for Monitor de Oriente, Salima Bouyarden, a specialist in globalization, Islam and identity.

Moroccan national team coach Walid Regragui has been able to highlight this diversity of the team. "They speak Dutch, French, Italian or Spanish. But in the end, everyone has a Moroccan heart," he said about his players, including Hakim Ziyech, Noussair Mazraoui, Sofyan Amrabat and Zakaria Aboukhlal, who were born in the Netherlands. "They were trained there and it shows. They are creative players who think in a certain way."

The tribute paid to the players’ mothers on the field after the matches is also to be commended. Honoring these women on the biggest stage of football is also a sign of respect for diversity, much to the chagrin of xenophobes, racists and far-right activists, it is noted.

In reality, the dual nationality of some players has not been an obstacle for the Moroccan national team. On the contrary, with their participation in the World Cup, the Moroccan dual nationals have restored the role and effect of dual nationality. "The Moroccans may not have won the tournament, but they have won our hearts, made history and conquered the world," concluded Salima Bouyarden.