World Cup Semifinal Pits France Against Morocco, Stirring Mixed Emotions for Dual Nationals

In Agen on Saturday evening, Saïd Amellal had a hard time recovering from his emotions. Of Moroccan origin, he had not finished celebrating Morocco’s qualification when that of France intervened. A well-known figure in football in the region, the Agenais was obviously overjoyed on Saturday evening. "I’m still pinching myself," he tells the newspaper La Dépêche. He admits that he knew Morocco was going to do wonders in Qatar. He notes the presence in the team of "excellent players".

But what should make the difference this year, according to the Agenais, is the presence of Walid Regragui as coach of the Atlas Lions. "All the credit goes to Walid Regragui. Like Didier Deschamps, he managed to form a collective. We enjoy watching them play. Yet some play in Brest, Angers... We’ll say second-rate players. But when they put on the national team jersey, they transcend themselves. That’s good, it highlights African football."

Being faced with a confrontation that pits his two countries of the heart is not an easy thing for Saïd Amellal. "Let’s not ask us to choose! It would be logical for France to win. But whoever the winner, they will have to go all the way. I hope it will be above all a great celebration".

Given the incidents recorded after each of Morocco’s matches, the Agenais calls on his compatriots to be restrained and calm regardless of the outcome of Wednesday’s match. "If France qualifies, may Moroccan supporters celebrate the beautiful journey of their team and the qualification of the Blues. May there be no remarks that could be taken over by others. Just live a beautiful moment of football, all together".