Morocco’s Young Lions Roar: Historic U20 World Cup Victory Ignites National Euphoria

From Rabat to Casablanca, Moroccans have invaded the streets of the cities. "This is a historic event!", exclaims Mimoune El Moufid, 59 years old, his voice trembling with pride, in the heart of Rabat. He adds: "This is the first time a Moroccan team has won a World Cup!" At four o’clock in the morning, the euphoria was at its peak. "Congratulations to us! This is just the beginning!", chant the Moroccans. "I don’t have the words", whispers Chadin El Moussaoui, 16 years old, his eyes shining, "moved to see so much happiness" in the streets of the country.

With a brace (12th, 29th), Yassir Zabiri (12th, 29th) gave Morocco its first world star at the U20 World Cup in Chile. "This youth will motivate the national team" as the Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host this winter, approaches, is convinced Mustapha Idissi, a 50-year-old merchant. After this historic triumph, Moroccan supporters dream of the 2030 World Cup. "If God wills it, we will win it!, says Mohamed El Badaoui, 38 years old. It’s our dream for all: to go far, very far, why not win the real World Cup in 2030."

In a message of congratulations addressed to the members of the U20 national team, King Mohammed VI said he had followed "with immense joy and deep pride" their "heroic journey", "crowned by [a] well-deserved triumph". The Atlas Lions have "worthily honored their country and its youth" and "represented the African continent, as it should be", the sovereign stressed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3K_u_De15c