Morocco’s Young Lions Roar: U20 World Champions Honored by King

The new U20 world champions were received by the Sovereign, during a ceremony presided over by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan on royal instructions. "It is an indescribable feeling and an invaluable source of pride," Ouahbi said after the meeting with the king. The coach of the "Lionceaux" also hailed "the royal recognition, which is a powerful driving force for the players and the entire technical staff to continue on this momentum, and to continue to raise high the colors of the Kingdom on the international stage".

"We would like to thank all those who supported and accompanied us on this historic adventure," added Ouahbi, stressing the "exemplary discipline, cohesion and combativeness" shown by the young players throughout the tournament. According to Ouahbi, this world title is the result of "considerable sacrifices, rigorous collective work and a deep faith in success". The Moroccan coach continues: "These young people are the true world champions. They have proven that Morocco is teeming with promising talents, capable of accomplishing great things as soon as they are given confidence and support."

For Mohamed Ouahbi, this royal reception testifies "to the value that the Kingdom attaches to youth and sport, essential pillars of the societal project carried by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, based on citizenship, solidarity and collective excellence." And he concludes: "This triumph is not an end in itself, but the beginning of a new stage. It is up to us to capitalize on this success to continue to progress, to win titles and to honor our dear country, Morocco."