WORLD CUP 2022: MOROCCO IN THE BIG LEAGUE
Morocco became the first African team in history to reach the World Cup semi-finals. Treated as the world’s surprise package during the group stage, the Atlas lions succeeded in earning a well-deserved fourth place worldwide, and above all in sharing their values, culture and love of their origins.
MOROCCO IN THE LAST 16 FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 1986
The 2022 World Cup was not just a soccer competition. It was an opportunity to write the most beautiful history of African soccer in general, and that of Morocco in particular. A story that every Moroccan will treasure in their minds and hearts.
It all started with a draw against Croatia, former finalists at the 2018 World Cup, followed by a win over Belgium and finally Canada. A success translated into qualification for the World Cup Round of 16.
“THE MOROCCANS FINISH FIRST AND EMERGE FROM THE WORLD CUP GROUP STAGES FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 1986.”
“MOROCCO, THE BIGGEST SURPRISE OF THE 2022 WORLD CUP”
MOROCCO VS SPAIN QUARTER-FINAL DIRECTION
At this stage of the competition and against Spain, the whole world thought that the Atlas Lions’ stay in Qatar would come to an end. But it was far from over!
BY BEATING PORTUGAL (1-0), MOROCCO BECAME THE FIRST AFRICAN TEAM IN HISTORY TO QUALIFY FOR THE WORLD CUP SEMI-FINALS.
“MOROCCO, THE BIG WINNER OF THE TOURNAMENT DESPITE ELIMINATION”.
“Despite losing to the French team on Wednesday night (2-0) in the semi-finals of the 2022 Football World Cup, Morocco is emerging from the competition with its head held high.”
“WORLD CUP 2022: A HISTORIC FOURTH PLACE FOR MOROCCO”
THE VALUES TRANSMITTED BY THE ATLAS LIONS TO PLANET FOOTBALL
Beyond all circumstances, soccer is the only passion that unites the whole world and manages to bring different peoples together at the same time. The World Cup brings together 32 flags, 32 cultures and 32 origins. It knows no barriers. It was never envisaged that this flagship sporting event could go further and touch on other aspects such as ethnic homogeneity. Over and above the sporting achievements of the Moroccan national team at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the Atlas Lions were able to transmit a range of values to the whole world, gain recognition for the beauty of their homeland and, indeed, be the surprise package of the World Cup that the whole world is talking about.
SELF-SACRIFICE AND SOLIDARITY
“Unwavering solidarity. Whether on the pitch, on the substitutes’ bench or in the dressing room, the players and technical staff demonstrate exemplary cohesion.”
Miguel 31 years old
“Surprised by the performances of Achraf Hakimi and Soufiane Amrabet, in defiance of injuries, were keen to play and wear their jerseys more than ever.”
William 26 years old
ATTACHMENT TO FAMILY
“They paid tribute to the shadow warriors who sacrificed their lives to help them grow up to become the stars of this World Cup.”
Oussama 24 years old
ATTACHMENT TO COUNTRY
Whether footballing geniuses such as Ziyech or Mazraoui opt for the national colors and turn down lucrative offers to wear other national jerseys, the attachment of Moroccans to their country no longer needs to be demonstrated.
“The most memorable moment for me is the way the crowd repeats the national anthem at the start of every match involving the Atlas Lions. An extraordinary demonstration.”
Wael 33 years old
SURPASSING ONESELF
“Throughout the World Cup period, I heard my Moroccan comrades repeating “Dirou Niya, you have to have confidence in yourself and give it your all.”
Tuan 23 years old
ALTRUISM AND CAMARADERIE
“Respect to Yassine Bounou, who handed over his trophy for best player of the match to his team-mate – a great spirit of altruism!”
Karima 22 years old
RELIGIOUS PRIDE
“The Moroccans, in scenes never before seen in world soccer competitions, are making their values and gratitudes triumph. In victory as in defeat.”
Quentin 28 years old
FROM A NATIONAL SELECTION TO A NATION’S AMBASSADOR
“WHAT IMPACT WILL THIS MOROCCAN EPIC HAVE ON THE COUNTRY FROM AN ECONOMIC, GEOPOLITICAL AND DIPLOMATIC POINT OF VIEW? “
” MOROCCO GAINS NOTORIETY AFTER THE 2022 WORLD CUP “
“THE ATLAS LIONS DO TERRITORIAL MARKETING FOR THEIR COUNTRY”.
“The national team has made an entire country proud, and brought Moroccans together around soccer. It has even brought Arabs and Africans together. Beyond the euphoria, this achievement should generate significant economic benefits for the country in the short, medium and even long term.”
Abdeslam Seddiki
Economist and former Minister of Employment and Social Affairs.
A BOOM FOR TOURISM
The national team’s historic success can be seen as free publicity for Morocco. It has enabled the country to raise its profile and develop an attractive brand image. Thanks to this sporting feat, Morocco as a destination is becoming better known around the world. It’s also an advantage in terms of promoting the country’s image; it’s the best campaign the country could have hoped for.
ATTRACTING INVESTORS
The campaign is also expected to have a positive impact on investment. Morocco must not miss this opportunity. On the contrary, it must capitalize on its achievements in the industrial sector and show its true face as a great pioneering country.
Thanks to soccer, Morocco is now an economic, cultural, political and, above all, marketing winner. The coach and the Atlas lions have done territorial marketing for their country, origins, cultures and values. Successful nation branding in Qatar! The Atlas Lions have made history and opened up a new era in African soccer.
“THEY MAY NOT BE WORLD CHAMPIONS, BUT THEY ARE THEIR COUNTRY’S CHAMPIONS, THEIR NATION’S AMBASSADORS AND, ABOVE ALL, THE MARKETERS OF THE MOROCCAN BRAND IMAGE … .”
GHITA ALAMI MERROUNI
In conclusion, we firmly believe that such events present an exceptional opportunity to not only create engaging content but also to showcase and promote the diverse qualities of the country. By leveraging the excitement and visibility generated by these events, we can highlight the unique cultural, natural, and historical facets of the country, fostering greater appreciation and interest.