World Cup 2022: Euphoria in Casablanca after victory over Belgium
Morocco: euphoria in Casablanca after the win over Belgium (2-0). Fans remain cautious ahead of the Canada game, however.
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After a first goal was ruled out for offside, Abdelhamid Sabiri's opener sent the Casablanca fan zones wild. Aboukhlal's goal, following a bit of skill from a rejuvenated Hakim Ziyech, then released a euphoric crowd at the final whistle. Morocco had just made a major statement at this World Cup by beating Belgium (2-0) at the Al Thumama Stadium. With four points on the board, a draw or a win against Canada will secure the Atlas Lions a place in the second round.
In Casablanca, a chorus of car horns greeted this first big performance of the World Cup. The colours of the flag were on show outside cafés and restaurants. Traditional chaabi music played in certain parts of the economic capital. Supporters made the most of the pleasure given by an Atlas Lions side on the front foot. They poured out in huge numbers to celebrate a stunning result against an outplayed Red Devils side.
"Belgium had been warned..."
This first win owes much to Walid Regragui's coaching nous, with his substitutions making an immediate difference. Moroccan supporters are unanimous on that, and are now fully won over by the former coach of Wydad.
"Belgium had already been warned about the trap game awaiting them against Morocco. The Devils walked straight into it, struggling to build their play and make a difference. Admittedly, I was sceptical when Walid Regragui arrived, but I think he has now convinced everyone with this match", says Hicham L., who works in communications.
Limbs. 🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/4hOeIL7NlB
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 27, 2022
"The right performance"
Looking back on the display, former Morocco international Abdelkrim Merry, known as "Krimau", praised a win built on following the young coach's instructions well.
"Today the players produced the right performance against Belgium. They were brilliant at the back, especially a very good goalkeeper in Munir M'hamedi, who replaced Yassine Bounou", he says. For the former Atlas Lion, who spoke to SNA, the match was also won by the fresh legs introduced late on. "The changes made during the game (with the introductions of Abdelhamid Sabiri, Zakaria Aboukhlal and Abderrazzak Hamdallah, editor's note) were also very good", he continues.
"Respect Canada"
However, Moroccans are staying largely cautious. Several supporters are not yet celebrating a place in the second round. The reason is that the national team can sometimes flop completely when favourites. "Against Canada, we will have to play and respect the opponent. At a World Cup, you must always stay alert", Krimau advises.
With the Croatia game almost over, Hicham L. hopes Morocco will hold their position and reach the round of 16. "A modest draw against Canada, who are already eliminated, would be welcome. In any case, I am convinced Regragui will know what to do to get us through". Morocco are looking for a first qualification for the second round since 1986, when they lost to Germany (1-0) in the round of 16.
Limbs. 🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/4hOeIL7NlB
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 27, 2022
M.H.