RABAT (Lord Media): Defending runners-up France will face Morocco in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final tonight, rekindling memories of the 2022 Qatar World Cup semi-final where France defeated Morocco 2-0.
Moroccan players were hailed as heroes in Rabat after reaching the 2022 Qatar World Cup semi-final. This time, Morocco has a golden opportunity to avenge that defeat.
The match between France and Morocco extends beyond football, rooted in a deep colonial and historical context. France occupied Morocco for decades, and a significant Moroccan diaspora resides in France.
France and Morocco have faced each other six times, with France winning four matches and two ending in draws. Morocco is still seeking its first victory against France.
Given the match’s significance, security has been heightened in Paris due to potential reactions from French fans if Morocco wins.
Morocco’s journey to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final has been impressive, drawing against Brazil in the group stage, and defeating Haiti and Scotland. They secured their quarter-final spot by beating Canada 3-0 in the round of 16.
Morocco’s coach, Mohamed Wahbi, stated their goal is not revenge against France but to make their country proud. Meanwhile, France appears strong, bolstered by Kylian Mbappe’s excellent form.
Of the 14 Muslim-majority nations that qualified for the World Cup, Morocco remains the only one in the semi-final race. Social media is abuzz with support for Morocco, with fans worldwide dubbing them ‘Africa’s last wall’.
