Morocco's performance in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar and wider implications

[sweep_shot]

Don't think this should be allowed.

Didn't FIFA said not to mix any political/social issues with sports and keep the world cup only for football? That's why they removed rainbow armbands from English players.

Double standards from FIFA and partly the reason why this world cup is such a flop.

Flop?

Doesn't seem like our resident IPL man (Rajdeep) watch or understand football. This World Cup has been one of the greatest World Cups of all time in terms of quality and performance.

 

[Mamoon]

Not a bad assessment, but I would add that the subcontinent as a whole has produced nothing, that is why all the countries still look the same, Islamic or not. It is a deeper malaise, or perhaps a cultural defect deeply embedded even before the advent of Islam in the subcontinent.

Probably better suited to another thread but since you brought it up I just added my thoughts.

Hindus have made huge contributions to the field of mathematics. Subcontinent Muslims have nothing to show for.

 

[szrana007]

That is a very deep question whose answer will go beyond the scope of this thread, but I will give you a brief summary.

The Islamic Golden Age was inspired by the Mutazilahs who did not harbor orthodox beliefs. They encouraged rational thinking & tried to use logical deductions, they were not held back by religion and made scientific breakthroughs.

Eventually, they were outnumbered and thus out-powered by the Ashari who held onto orthodox belief of not questioning nothing and encouraging blind faith.

Islam’s golden age ended while Western Europe was entering its Renaissance. As a result, over the next 2-3 centuries, Muslims start to lag behind in every field & were still holding onto stories of their Golden Age.

To be fair, the Arab world has still done okay & they were responsible for the Islamic Golden Age.

The subcontinent Muslims are by far the most useless & incompetent nation on earth. They have never achieved anything. They never had a Golden Age & only produced drunk poets.

They have made 0 contribution to the world.

Its a myth that the defeat of Mu'tazila at the hands of Ash'aris ended the Islamic golden age. The golden age continued long until the 13th century while the Mu'tazila were defeated in the 9th century.

The golden age ended because of the following:

Muslims lost their political unity. Abbasids in Baghdad rapidly lost power as the caliphate became more decentralized and split into several client kingdoms. The Umayyads in Cordoba lost power after a series of intolerant, inefficient rulers.

The final blow was the loss of Baghdad and Cordoba. Baghdad was sacked by the Mongols in 1258 marking the end of the golden age. The House of Wisdom, which housed probably up to a million manuscripts and served as the educational center of the world at that time, was burnt to the ground by the Mongols.


As for the Mu'tazila they were rightfully defeated because they held several heretical beliefs like Quran is the created word of God that goes against the mainstream Islamic belief.

The mainstream belief is that the Qur'an's language and words are created, as they are simply arrangements of letters and sounds, however the meanings that these letters and sounds refer to, are eternal. The eternal "part" is in fact the true speech of God, and is an eternal attribute of God. The Arabic wording is NOT an attribute of God.

Its a myth that the Ash'aris encouraged blind faith when you consider that the mainstream Ash'ari methodology is to use reason as a judge over the literal meaning of the Quran.

 

[szrana007]

Hindus have made huge contributions to the field of mathematics. Subcontinent Muslims have nothing to show for.

Thats very harsh. Muslims brought immense fertility to the Indian subcontinent, upgrading architecture, cuisine, mysticism, and languages.

You should study the history of Sufism in Indian subcontinent to know about the Muslim contribution to civilization in the subcontinent.

Not to mention that the Muslim history of subcontinent includes the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, two of the greatest empires of the Muslim history.

 

[MenInG]

Thats very harsh. Muslims brought immense fertility to the Indian subcontinent, upgrading architecture, cuisine, mysticism, and languages.

You should study the history of Sufism in Indian subcontinent to know about the Muslim contribution to civilization in the subcontinent.

Not to mention that the Muslim history of subcontinent includes the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, two of the greatest empires of the Muslim history.

You don't need to explain yourself on this account.

This thread is about Morocco France/

 

[Ahmad-GERMANFC]

This is such a horrible take lmao, rooting against a country because of their religion really shows how close-minded you are, you're no better than those people you claim will be "insufferable"

Nobody is labeling this as a victory for Islam that's such a reach, I've seen people mention they are the first Muslim/African country to reach the Semi's but I have not heard anyone label it as a victory for Islam, this is sports it has nothing to do with religion, if it's been mentioned it's only due to the historical significance. Yes people are hyped but that's because of the historical significance, because Morocco is ONLY the 3rd team ever outside of Europe/South America to qualify for the Semi's.

In 2002 when South Korea became the first Asian team to qualify for the Semi's were people insufferable for brining up that point? If something happens for the first time especially in an event as big as the world cup of course it will be talked about. You clearly have no idea what you are taking about, and are hating just to hate at this point.

If in 2022 you are hating on a country because of their religion and want them to lose then cool that's your opinion say that, but don't twist it to say others are being insufferable, clearly the only one that will be insufferable if they win is you.

They are not first Muslim country to reach semi final…

 

[Ahmad-GERMANFC]

There is no ummah. That’s a mirage.

There def seems to be for Moroccan team lol

 

[Ahmad-GERMANFC]

Don't think this should be allowed.

Didn't FIFA said not to mix any political/social issues with sports and keep the world cup only for football? That's why they removed rainbow armbands from English players.

Double standards from FIFA and partly the reason why this world cup is such a flop.

Lol this World Cup is a flop? Everyone’s saying it’s the most exciting cup in recent memory

 

[Mamoon]

Thats very harsh. Muslims brought immense fertility to the Indian subcontinent, upgrading architecture, cuisine, mysticism, and languages.

You should study the history of Sufism in Indian subcontinent to know about the Muslim contribution to civilization in the subcontinent.

Not to mention that the Muslim history of subcontinent includes the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, two of the greatest empires of the Muslim history.

Delhi Sultanate & Mughal Empire were not subcontinent Muslims. They were Muslims who came & conquered the subcontinent. Subcontinent Muslims have not achieved anything & they will never achieve anything. Incompetence & failure runs in their blood & they are only good at basking in the glory of Muslims who came & conquered from different lands.

 

[szrana007]

Delhi Sultanate & Mughal Empire were not subcontinent Muslims. They were Muslims who came & conquered the subcontinent. Subcontinent Muslims have not achieved anything & they will never achieve anything. Incompetence & failure runs in their blood & they are only good at basking in the glory of Muslims who came & conquered from different lands.

You are ignorant of the rich history of Islam in the subcontinent, and the subcontinent has produced some of the greatest scholars and mystics of Islam.

But I don't want to derail this thread so lets just leave it that.

 

[szrana007]

https://twitter.com/5Pillarsuk/status/1601974101974843394

Moroccan midfielder, Sofyan Amrabat, dedicated the country’s World Cup success to “all Muslims” who are praying for them and supporting them around the world.

So tell me again that how the Muslim Ummah doesn't exist

 

[sweep_shot]

https://twitter.com/5Pillarsuk/status/1601974101974843394

Moroccan midfielder, Sofyan Amrabat, dedicated the country’s World Cup success to “all Muslims” who are praying for them and supporting them around the world.

So tell me again that how the Muslim Ummah doesn't exist

I believe most Muslims feel the Muslim brotherhood. If you go to any mosque (whether a Muslim country or a non-Muslim country), you can feel it.

Most people who talk against Ummah are generally non-Muslims (atheists, agnostics etc.), salty Indians, and confused/ignorant Muslims.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Why can’t people just celebrate Moroccos success as an underdog triumph and leave it at that. It’s funny that it’s being seen as some religious triumph

Must be nice to have so many countries to root for. Anyway wonder how many Moroccans know of a country called Pakistan.

Who has said it is a religious triumph?

Moroccans know about Pakistan ( particularly overseas Pakistanis) because of a large number of tourists.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

I believe most Muslims feel the Muslim brotherhood. If you go to any mosque (whether a Muslim country or a non-Muslim country), you can feel it.

Most people who talk against Ummah are generally non-Muslims (atheists, agnostics etc.), salty Indians, and confused/ignorant Muslims.

Ummah concept exists among common men.

It is easy to travel when Muslim, you will no doubt find another Muslim somewhere who will welcome you, feed you and show you around, usually without expecting something in return.

I've travelled around most of the world and in most cases fellow muslims ( even in non-muslim countries) treat you in such a way that shows that the concept of Ummah and brotherhood still exists.

It doesn't exist at governmental level.

And you are 100% right about the people who talk against the Ummah concept

 

[sweep_shot]

Ummah concept exists among common men.

It is easy to travel when Muslim, you will no doubt find another Muslim somewhere who will welcome you, feed you and show you around, usually without expecting something in return.

I've travelled around most of the world and in most cases fellow muslims ( even in non-muslim countries) treat you in such a way that shows that the concept of Ummah and brotherhood still exists.

It doesn't exist at governmental level.

And you are 100% right about the people who talk against the Ummah concept

You can see in this thread that Indians are uniting to not support Morocco. They are like an anti-Ummah.

Common Muslims recognize and identify with Ummah. It is because our scriptures (Hadith and Quran) encourage that. Anyone who identifies as a Muslim but not with Ummah has faulty understanding of deen.

Different Muslim governments may fight with each other but common people are united.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Delhi Sultanate & Mughal Empire were not subcontinent Muslims. They were Muslims who came & conquered the subcontinent. Subcontinent Muslims have not achieved anything & they will never achieve anything. Incompetence & failure runs in their blood & they are only good at basking in the glory of Muslims who came & conquered from different lands.

If incompetence and failure runs in their blood, then it must be the Hindu blood which you were praising only a few posts up. I have no idea why you have dragged this thread down to these details, but maybe better to take it up in one of the other many threads dealing with Ummah and Hinduism and leave this one for football fans.

 

[szrana007]

I believe most Muslims feel the Muslim brotherhood. If you go to any mosque (whether a Muslim country or a non-Muslim country), you can feel it.

Most people who talk against Ummah are generally non-Muslims (atheists, agnostics etc.), salty Indians, and confused/ignorant Muslims.

Agreed, I have been fortunate enough to perform Hajj, where when you experience people from all over the globe united, you get the real sense of the Ummah.

 

[Kroll]

The Moroccans living in France will have to be vigilant. Don't celebrate so openly if they win.

They'll take over the Champs-Elysees and Lille will go mental if they win.

 

[szrana007]

France will win, but expecting Morocco to give a good account of themselves.

 

[MenInG]

If incompetence and failure runs in their blood, then it must be the Hindu blood which you were praising only a few posts up. I have no idea why you have dragged this thread down to these details, but maybe better to take it up in one of the other many threads dealing with Ummah and Hinduism and leave this one for football fans.

This is usual modus operandi - best not to get dragged into this and just discuss the topic.

 

[Sherazkhalid]

France will win, but expecting Morocco to give a good account of themselves.

i am hoping they win Final as well, maybe its a good thing they are not full strength, too many cooks spoil the broth

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Hindus have made huge contributions to the field of mathematics. Subcontinent Muslims have nothing to show for.

Even this is debatable. Hindus also claim they invented plastic surgery so perhaps better just to talk football unless you really want to discuss your subcontinent in depth here.

 

[Kroll]

Morocco will be hard to break down given their earlier form. I believe they have only conceded one goal in the whole tournament and even that was an own goal whilst busy knocking out Belgium, Spain and Portugal.

 

[MenInG]

Morocco and Palestine
France v Morocco (19.00 GMT)

The Palestinian flag has been a key feature of the Moroccan team’s on-field celebrations – a move which has drawn praise from some broadcasters in the Middle East and North Africa.

After the win over Portugal, midfielder Abdelhamid Sabiri posted a picture on Instagram showing him draped in the flag. The post carried the single-word English caption "Freedom" and a dove emoji.

It’s an image that has been repeated among supporters on the streets, as seen on Moroccan state TV.

This makes or an interesting addition to story of the tournament, where an Arab nation is using the platform of a global showpiece on Middle Eastern soil to raise an issue that means a great deal to many in the region.

It takes on extra significance given that the Moroccan government normalised diplomatic ties with Israel in 2020 – a move that was met with some disquiet in the country.

After the win against Portugal, state-run al-Aoula TV broadcast reactions from the occupied Palestinian Territories, with the presenter noting: "The Gaza Strip during this tournament has turned into a part of Morocco”.

The same channel also carried reactions from the Moroccan community in Israel, who were said to have “followed this game with total enthusiasm and sincerity, wishing victory for the national Moroccan team".

BBC

 

[SalimBhai]

Morocco air had to cancel flights from morocco to Qatar on orders of Qatar government. Left 1000s of people stranded.

 

[MenInG]

A 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinal pitting France against Morocco on Wednesday night will be more than just a football match.

In Paris, the Champs-Elysees is expected to be the place for celebration. It was the case last Saturday for Moroccan fans after the historic qualification of the Atlas Lions for the final four of the Qatar 2022. French supporters joined them to share their joy, delighted to enjoy the success of the Blues against England.

But the evening had ended badly and clashes with police officers led to more than 150 arrests, including 100 in Paris, according to police sources and the prosecutor's office.

While many French and/or Moroccan supporters are expected on the Champs-Elysees for celebration after the match, Jeanne d'Hauteserre, a local Paris mayor, wants the most beautiful avenue in the world to be closed from Concorde to the Arc de Triumph.

D'Hauteserre thus wishes to avoid "an outbreak of gang war and civil war" as well as "moments of panic," as she explained in an interview on news channel CNews.

Also read: Major travel disruption expected in UK as strike of nearly 40,000 rail workers begin

"When we want to celebrate victory, we don't come with mortars ... Everyone is afraid and we don't want the Champs-Elysees to turn into a battlefield!" she added.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin earlier decided to strengthen the police force, as 10,000 police officers will be mobilized, including 5,000 in the Paris region.

While most of merchants decided to close their doors early as a precaution for fear of repeating the last Saturday scenario after the qualification of the Moroccan and French teams.

Politicians, known for their anti-immigrant views in the country, linked the upcoming match to the immigration file.

Far-right National Front President Jordan Bardella believes that some Moroccan fans are inhabited by "a sense of revenge" against France, indicating that this issue leads to violence with security forces.

"We are paying the price for 30 years of failed immigration policy," Bardella said in an interview on news channel BFMTV.

In addition, far-right Eric Zemmour described Wednesday evening as "a frightening matter for the police."

"I would like to know how the king of Morocco and the Moroccans would react if thousands of French people celebrated their victory in Marrakesh?" he asked.

Similarly, Laurent Jacobelli, a member of the French National Assembly and spokesman for the National Rally, expressed his regret to see people holding French nationality but not supporting the French team.

The World Cup semifinal between the two national teams will be played in a context of diplomatic tensions, including French President Emmanuel Macron's courtship of Algeria and Western Sahara.

Also read: Climate change will fuel humanitarian crises in 2023: study

Also, Morocco is unhappy with Macron's decision to reduce the number of travel visas issued to Moroccan citizens.

France, on the other hand, did not appreciate Morocco's economic presence in West Africa as it considers Africa a natural extension of it.

In fact, the last few years have seen an inexorable deterioration in the diplomatic relationship to the point that a real falling out of love has set in between Paris and Rabat.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/239107...over-fears-of-violence-in-world-cup-semifinal

 

[SalimBhai]

Flights were cancelled on instructions of the Qatari government. Did not want too many Moroccans in Qatar? So much for the ummah theory.

 

[MenInG]

Hundreds of Moroccan football fans have been left devastated as last-minute flight cancellations look set to stop them travelling to Qatar for Wednesday's World Cup semi-final.

Morocco's national airliner - Royal Air Maroc - had planned to run seven additional flights ahead of the game.

It made the decision after Morocco's FA promised to give fans 13,000 free tickets to the clash with France.

But on Wednesday, it said Qatari officials had blocked the flights.

"Following the latest restrictions imposed by the Qatari authorities Royal Air Maroc regrets to inform customers of the cancellation of their flights operated by Qatar Airways," the airline said in a statement to the Reuters news agency.

It is unclear why Qatari officials ordered the airline to stop the flights, and the government's central communications office has yet to respond to a BBC request for comment.

In a post on its social media channels on Monday, the airline had offered to lay on 30 additional flights as part of "an exceptional flight schedule" to help fans get to Qatar.

But affiliated travel agencies later said there would be just seven extra flights.

The cancellations left a number of fans who had already booked tickets and hotel rooms out of pocket.

The airline offered a full apology and said it would reimburse passengers.

 

[KingKhanWC]

France are the most dangerous team in the world on their day.

However a world cup semi final is about pressure, team work and determination.

If France score early, it will be very difficult for Morocco.

The longer the game stays tight, the more chance of a historic upset.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Flights were cancelled on instructions of the Qatari government. Did not want too many Moroccans in Qatar? So much for the ummah theory.

Its a small nation, there they dont want too many fans without tickets.

If you understood such tournaments, this is a very normal. In Europe police even on cup final day advise fans to stay from the stadium , those within the country not just from abroad. I assume your rant was more anti-Muslim as usual.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Heartbreak of Semis is huge!

I believe in Morocco with their hearts and souls being backed by Arabs, Africans, Asians!

 

[sweep_shot]

Flights were cancelled on instructions of the Qatari government. Did not want too many Moroccans in Qatar? So much for the ummah theory.

It is a small country. Things can get chaotic. I think it is a reasonable decision.

Your anti-Ummah rants are getting repetitive.

 

[SalimBhai]

Why would it get chaotic. You mean if they riot.

 

[sweep_shot]

Why would it get chaotic. You mean if they riot.

Nothing to do with riot.

More people means more people to handle. It is not practical.

 

[szrana007]

France will win, but expecting Morocco to give a good account of themselves.

As expected, France won, well played Morocco and good luck to France for the final.

 

[Mamoon]

Bye bye Morocco. Time to put away those Palestinian flags & bring them out in 2026.

Political/Islamic agenda had no business in this World Cup. Morocco have lost a lot of respect.

 

[szrana007]

Bye bye Morocco. Time to put away those Palestinian flags & bring them out in 2026.

Political/Islamic agenda had no business in this World Cup. Morocco have lost a lot of respect.

They have gained the respect of football fans around the world, not sure what you are ranting on about.

 

[topspin]

Bye bye Morocco. Time to put away those Palestinian flags & bring them out in 2026.

Political/Islamic agenda had no business in this World Cup. Morocco have lost a lot of respect.

It has nothing to do with politics and Islam.

It's actually because Algerians keep taunting Moroccans as pro-Israelis due to Morrocco's close ties with Israeli government.

The Moroccan players have a duty to show that they do not represent the views of their Government.

I'm well versed with what goes on in Morrocco as I've been there many times and my fiancé is Arab herself.

As usual you're very quick to make negative assumptions about anyone who is Muslim.

Pakistani cricketers are the one who deserve the ridicule when it comes to the "Islamic agenda" because of the influence the Tableeghi have had on the players.

 

[Mamoon]

It has nothing to do with politics and Islam.

It's actually because Algerians keep taunting Moroccans as pro-Israelis due to Morrocco's close ties with Israeli government.

The Moroccan players have a duty to show that they do not represent the views of their Government.

I'm well versed with what goes on in Morrocco as I've been there many times and my fiancé is Arab herself.

As usual you're very quick to make negative assumptions about anyone who is Muslim.

Pakistani cricketers are the one who deserve the ridicule when it comes to the "Islamic agenda" because of the influence the Tableeghi have had on the players.

Morocco players do not have a duty to show that they do not support Israel & are not echoing their government's sentiments. They are here to play football & not show their allegiance. They should not have celebrated with Palestinian flags. This nonsense should be kept away from football.

 

[Technics 1210]

France didn't want to play in the World Cup, the nation refused to broadcast the World Cup in public places, French footballers, celebrities, and politicians went on record saying they would not watch the World Cup - all because of the LGBTQ nonsense, but no, Morroco are the hypocrits here.

 

[sweep_shot]

Bye bye Morocco. Time to put away those Palestinian flags & bring them out in 2026.

Political/Islamic agenda had no business in this World Cup. Morocco have lost a lot of respect.

Morocco have gained respect actually.

Check social media.

Only people who do not like Morocco seem to be some salty Indians (due to their hatred for Islam).

 

[SalimBhai]

"Religion Should be kept out of sports. some of the posts on here were cringe with "All muslim teams", or when someone typed Andaluz has been restored " when Morocco beat Spain. It's equal to saying ( I am not saying this, just making a point) " The colonizer has put the colonized in its rightful place". That would be a terrible and cringe statement like the other ones. Enjoy football and dont play identity politics. Go Argentina!!!!!!

 

[SalimBhai]

Riots have erupted in Belgium and France over the Moroccan loss. One 14 year old boy killed .Hopefully does not get too violent Moroccan fans behaving like the English fans of the 80s . Maybe thats why Qatar did not let in more Moroccans today. There is absolutely no reason to get violent .

 

[MenInG]

Shocking video footage has emerged of the moment a teenage boy was run down on the streets of Montpellier as Moroccan fans riot following their World Cup semi final defeat to France.

The boy, 14, was part of a large group of what appeared to be Moroccan supporters marauding down Rue de la Mosson in the southern French city when they happened upon a white hatchback with a French flag flying out of its window.

The group descended on the car, attempting to rip the flag away from its owner, when the driver panicked and performed a hasty U-turn to cross into the oncoming lane and make a quick getaway.

Several members of the crowd could not react in time and the teenager was sucked under the wheels, sustaining critical injuries. Authorities confirmed he was transferred to a nearby hospital but later died.

Riot police are battling to maintain order as French and Moroccan football supporters clashed in cities across France and Belgium following the semi-finals of the World Cup.

Scenes from the southern French cities of Montpellier and Nice saw fans fighting in the streets, launching flares at one another and setting fire to rubbish bins in the streets while cops brandished batons and used water cannons to quell the unrest.

In Brussels meanwhile, roughly 100 Moroccan fans gathered near Brussels South station, throwing fireworks and other objects at lines of police dressed in riot gear but dispersed quickly when tear gas was deployed.

Some 10,000 police officers in France and Belgium were gearing up for carnage on the streets tonight after Les Bleus dumped underdogs Morocco out of the World Cup. Around 2,200 officers, many of them equipped with riot gear, are stationed in Paris alone with police vans and barricades lining the Champs-Elysees.

A man stands next to burning trash containers, after France's victory over Morocco in the Qatar 2022 World Cup semi-final, in Nice on December 14, 2022

Morocco fans in France had been in a celebratory frenzy ever since their team went on its historic World Cup journey, becoming the first African and Arab team to reach the last four in the global showpiece event.

In some places, including the Champs-Elysees, the supporters clashed with police, destroying cars and shop windows after beating Portugal in the quarter-finals, while supporters ran riot in Brussels when their team defeated the Red Devils 2-0 in the group stage.

Supporters poured into Paris' freezing Champs-Elysees on Wednesday after a World Cup semi-final between France and Morocco which for millions tugged at the heartstrings, as 'Les Bleus' won 2-0 to reach the final for a second time in a row.

They were flanked by hundreds of police trucks securing the area as fans let off fireworks.

Deeply enmeshed by their colonial bonds and post-war flows of migrant labour from North Africa to France, the two nations share a history that has shaped their identities and their politics, and made for a sometimes edgy relationship.

France and Belgium are both home to a large Moroccan community, many of whom have dual citizenship.

Police form a line on either side of a water cannon vehicle in Brussels after France won the World Cup semi-final football match between Morocco and France on Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Last Saturday, when Morocco beat Portugal in the quarter-finals, 20,000 fans descended on the Champs-Elysees to celebrate the historic win but clashes broke out between supporters and riot police who fired tear gas, with 100 people arrested after shops were damaged and cars set alight.

In Belgium, police were forced to seal off parts of capital and the port city of Antwerp while officers also deployed water cannons and fired tear gas to disperse crowds as violence broke out following Morocco's 2-0 victory over the Red Devils in the group stage.

Dozens of rioters set steps on fire and threw bricks at cars, before riot cops moved in when one person suffered facial injuries, according to a police spokesperson.

Tonight, police were more prepared, having lined the pavement of the Champs-Elysees with barricades and police vans.

'We preferred to come early because it will be chaos later on. We just want to celebrate our win and we can really feel it will get crazy,' said student Kerene Massuka who came with a friend carrying a French flag.

Crowds of supporters from both countries were seen entering the Christmas-decorated boulevard after the final whistle, where authorities were bracing for tens of thousands despite temperatures around 0 Celsius.

The stakes were high on both sides.

Morocco had a shot at becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup final, but France are now poised to become the first team to retain their World Cup title in 60 years on Sunday.

Theo Hernandez scored in the fifth minute in a perfect start for the holders, who would have been looking for an early strike to silence the rowdy Moroccan support at the Al Bayt Stadium and dent the confidence of their team.

But it still proved a close-fought match as Morocco overcame injury blows and showed no deference to France´s reputation, taking the game to them in a gallant effort that added to the glowing reputation they have earned at the tournament.

France settled the outcome with a second goal 11 minutes from time as substitute Randal Kolo Muani, with a first touch after coming on, tucked in a shot at the back post.

They are now into a fourth World Cup final and can become the first country to successfully defend their title since Brazil 60 years ago.

"There's emotion, there's pride, there's going to be a final step, we've been together with the players for a month, it's never easy, there's happiness so far," said a smiling coach Didier Deschamps.

For the first goal, Hernandez had to lift his left foot high to connect with a bouncing ball from a tight angle to finish off a sweeping move started by Antoine Griezmann´s run down the right and a cutback pass that Kylian Mbappe initially fluffed.

Mbappe was the creator of the second as he attempted first to dribble through the Morocco defence and then shoot, his effort blocked but falling for Kolo Muani to net.

Olivier Giroud struck the post and missed from point-blank range in the first half at the end of a barnstorming run through the middle from Aurelien Tchouameni.

The midfielder threaded a superb ball to find Mbappe, whose miscued shot was poorly cleared, allowing Giroud a first-time shot which went wide from close-in.

But Morocco were never overawed and created opportunities of their own as Azzedine Ounahi forced two good saves out of French captain Hugo Lloris with speculative efforts, and curling set-pieces put the French defence under pressure.

The north Africans were hit hard by injuries to their key centre backs with the gamble of naming Nayef Aguerd in the starting line up failing to work as he hurt his hamstring in the warm-up and skipper Romain Saiss was forced off after 20 minutes.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/ar...-brace-clashes-Morocco-CRASHES-World-Cup.html

 

[SpiritOf1903]

"Religion Should be kept out of sports. some of the posts on here were cringe with "All muslim teams", or when someone typed Andaluz has been restored " when Morocco beat Spain. It's equal to saying ( I am not saying this, just making a point) " The colonizer has put the colonized in its rightful place". That would be a terrible and cringe statement like the other ones. Enjoy football and dont play identity politics. Go Argentina!!!!!!

Cry more. Palestine was an overriding theme for the better this tournament. Will it free Gaza?. Probably not. Bit they know they're not alone!

Viva Palestine. Vive Morocco! Vive Africa

 

[SalimBhai]

Yes viva Palestine viva africa. Nothing to do with the point I was making in the above post. Viva Yemen too. Right.

 

[SalimBhai]

Its a small nation, there they dont want too many fans without tickets.

If you understood such tournaments, this is a very normal. In Europe police even on cup final day advise fans to stay from the stadium , those within the country not just from abroad. I assume your rant was more anti-Muslim as usual.

I guess the Qataris predicted or feared for the Moroccans to riot. Hence they did not let more come in. And I guess they were right , going by what happened in Belgium and France last night.

 

[SalimBhai]

It is a small country. Things can get chaotic. I think it is a reasonable decision.

Your anti-Ummah rants are getting repetitive.

Did you hear about the riots by the Moroccan fans in Belgium and France last nite? I guess that’s why the Qataris took those steps.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

I guess the Qataris predicted or feared for the Moroccans to riot. Hence they did not let more come in. And I guess they were right , going by what happened in Belgium and France last night.

The Moroccan fans have been great in Qatar, all the British commentators have been singing their praises for the tremendous atmosphere they created and the fervent backing for their team. I haven't heard of any trouble outside the grounds or inside for that matter.

It seems to be Moroccan fans in Europe who are rioting, those too in France and Belgium, we haven't had trouble in the UK. I wonder if there is sour relations in the Franco countries because of the well publicised drive against Islamic dress codes? It's still inexcusable, but there must be some reason for the bad blood.

 

[SalimBhai]

The Moroccan fans have been great in Qatar, all the British commentators have been singing their praises for the tremendous atmosphere they created and the fervent backing for their team. I haven't heard of any trouble outside the grounds or inside for that matter.

It seems to be Moroccan fans in Europe who are rioting, those too in France and Belgium, we haven't had trouble in the UK. I wonder if there is sour relations in the Franco countries because of the well publicised drive against Islamic dress codes? It's still inexcusable, but there must be some reason for the bad blood.

I agree with you 100 percent , its the fans in Europe ( NOT UK) and Israel according to reports.

 

[SalimBhai]

The Moroccan fans have been great in Qatar, all the British commentators have been singing their praises for the tremendous atmosphere they created and the fervent backing for their team. I haven't heard of any trouble outside the grounds or inside for that matter.

It seems to be Moroccan fans in Europe who are rioting, those too in France and Belgium, we haven't had trouble in the UK. I wonder if there is sour relations in the Franco countries because of the well publicised drive against Islamic dress codes? It's still inexcusable, but there must be some reason for the bad blood.

This is just speculation but the good behavior of moroccan fans in Qatar could also be due to the reaction they know would come from Qatari authorities.

 

[sweep_shot]

The Moroccan fans have been great in Qatar, all the British commentators have been singing their praises for the tremendous atmosphere they created and the fervent backing for their team. I haven't heard of any trouble outside the grounds or inside for that matter.

It seems to be Moroccan fans in Europe who are rioting, those too in France and Belgium, we haven't had trouble in the UK. I wonder if there is sour relations in the Franco countries because of the well publicised drive against Islamic dress codes? It's still inexcusable, but there must be some reason for the bad blood.

Yeah. It is more of a regional issue. Moroccans in North America aren't behaving like this either.

There hasn't been any riot in Canada. We have Moroccans here too.

 

[Local.Dada]

Yeah. It is more of a regional issue. Moroccans in North America aren't behaving like this either.

There hasn't been any riot in Canada. We have Moroccans here too.

Moroccans or any one for that matter don’t behave that way in America because they know how it will end for them if they bring such ** to American streets. When I say Moroccans I mean the type who have a lot of time to cheer for Palestine etc instead of focusing on their day job.

 

[SalimBhai]

Another thing I would add is I have been going to Spain for last 20 years. It's practically my second home. Moroccans in Spain are not integrated at all in the Spanish society. They were the most hated immigrant group before the Romanians arrived. I believe it's the same case in France and Belgium of them not integrating . Two reasons there are no riots in North America is first there are not that many here. I live in NYC and it was a struggle to find a moroccan place to go watch the game yesterday. Plus they know how the US police will come down on them if they misbehaved. Also they are more integrated in the US society ( I think)

 

[sweep_shot]

Moroccans or any one for that matter don’t behave that way in America because they know how it will end for them if they bring such ** to American streets. When I say Moroccans I mean the type who have a lot of time to cheer for Palestine etc instead of focusing on their day job.

Cheering for Palestine maybe takes 2-5 minutes. I don't know what kind of job you do but most people will probably find those extra 5 minutes for Palestine.

Also, not sure what you meant by "how it will end for them". As someone who lives in North America for almost 2 decades, I can assure you it doesn't end badly most of the time.

 

[Local.Dada]

Cheering for Palestine maybe takes 2-5 minutes. I don't know what kind of job you do but most people will probably find those extra 5 minutes for Palestine.

Also, not sure what you meant by "how it will end for them". As someone who lives in North America for almost 2 decades, I can assure you it doesn't end badly most of the time.

living in North America for 2 decades doesn’t amount to the same as having enough exposure to North America, interacting with various people of various races in a professional, business or personal setting . That’s not a qualification fyi. Plenty of people who live in a bubble regardless of where they live. Don’t have to go too far for that. Having said if duration matters consider it a tie given how long I have lived here too.

 

[sweep_shot]

living in North America for 2 decades doesn’t amount to the same as having enough exposure to North America, interacting with various people of various races in a professional, business or personal setting . That’s not a qualification fyi. Plenty of people who live in a bubble regardless of where they live. Don’t have to go too far for that. Having said if duration matters consider it a tie given how long I have lived here too.

Have you ever met me? I didn't just live in Toronto. I have studied and worked with people from many different backgrounds.

You need to stop projecting Indian viewpoint to every country.

Also, not sure why you experience constipation if Muslims cheer for Palestine. Why do you care?

 

[Local.Dada]

Have you ever met me? I didn't just live in Toronto. I have studied and worked with people from many different backgrounds.

You need to stop projecting Indian viewpoint to every country.

Huh? USA is in North America sir

Lol ok I don’t need your resume, one can get an idea of how much exposure one has clearly unless this is an online gimmick .

 

[sweep_shot]

Huh? USA is in North America sir

Lol ok I don’t need your resume, one can get an idea of how much exposure one has clearly unless this is an online gimmick .

Stop deflecting.

Tell me why do you experience constipation if Muslims cheer for Palestine? There is no reason for you to be salty.

 

[Local.Dada]

Stop deflecting.

Tell me why do you experience severe constipation if Muslims cheer for Palestine? There is no reason for you to be salty.

I don’t care if Muslims cheer for Palestine in their homes or in an official protest type situation . I have a problem if some Muslims bring in religion and political issues where they don’t belong. For that matter of fact of people of any religion.

If anything you are experiencing what we call “cheap thrills” just because Morocco is a Muslim country and it has reached a semi final. I personally loved Morocco’s spirit and the way they have played football, I am only laughing at your “cheap thrills”

 

[sweep_shot]

I don’t care if Muslims cheer for Palestine in their homes or in an official protest type situation . I have a problem if some Muslims bring in religion and political issues where they don’t belong. For that matter of fact of people of any religion.

If anything you are experiencing what we call “cheap thrills” just because Morocco is a Muslim country and it has reached a semi final. I personally loved Morocco’s spirit and the way they have played football, I am only laughing at your “cheap thrills”

That's okay. You can laugh all you want. No Muslim should care. We are not some minority religion. We are almost 2-billion in number.

I want my fellow Muslims to do well and since Morocco is a Muslim-majority state, I want them to do well too.

But, as usual, some salty Indians (like yourself) are behaving like Paris Hilton.

 

[SalimBhai]

@ sweepshot
I think the issues or question that comes up Is you objected to LGBTQ arm bands saying no politics at the world cup, its virtual signaling or woke. But you are ok with Palestinian flags at the World Cup. You are ok with protesting and taking time out of your day for it, but in Iran when women do it you called them " Women with low GPA" or questioned dont these women have jobs????? That just reeks of hypocrisy and it's very hard to take you seriously. For the record I support the Palestinians, the arm bands and women's rights in Iran.

 

[JaDed]

living in North America for 2 decades doesn’t amount to the same as having enough exposure to North America, interacting with various people of various races in a professional, business or personal setting . That’s not a qualification fyi. Plenty of people who live in a bubble regardless of where they live. Don’t have to go too far for that. Having said if duration matters consider it a tie given how long I have lived here too.

In last two decades North America cannot be compared to the radical filth that is Europe, North America has lot of resources and lot of cities with melting pot cultures.

Dallas itself had Morocco vs France games on throughout outdoors without any issues.
Guess it helps that Americans don't care about soccer as such but it will still not be this bad as Europe.

 

[ex-q-zit]

Over 120 arrested as Moroccans face ‘racist violence’ in France after World Cup clash

Over 120 people were arrested on Wednesday night for what lawmakers denounced as “racist violence” in Paris and other French cities after France’s World Cup semifinal win over Morocco.

Some 10,000 police officers were mobilized across France over fears of possible riots, including 5,000 for Paris and the surrounding area alone.

Despite the measures, Moroccan fans faced verbal and physical attacks from some far-right groups as raucous celebrations erupted across the country after France won the game 2-0.

At least 115 people were arrested in total in Paris and its surrounding areas, local media reported.

Among them were 40 far-right suspects who were trying to reach the Champs-Elysees, the capital’s busiest spot that was packed with football fans, the reports said.

Violence was also reported in major cities such as Lyon, Nice, and Montpellier.

At least six people, including two members of a right-wing group, were arrested after a fight between rival fans in Lyon, according to reports.

French lawmaker Thomas Portes condemned the “planned attacks” and “racist violence” against Moroccan fans.

“We are close to a tragedy. We must react,” he wrote on Twitter.

Antoine Leaument, another parliamentarian, said “fascists … shouting racist remarks” attacked Moroccan fans in Nice.

“Racism is a crime,” he said in a tweet, calling for the perpetrators to be punished according to French law.

https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/20...ist-violence-in-france-after-world-cup-clash/

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

This is just speculation but the good behavior of moroccan fans in Qatar could also be due to the reaction they know would come from Qatari authorities.

You're right it's just speculation, but the truth is they probably weren't a badly behaved bunch, most of them looked in great spirits. Another nice thing to see was there was lots of female fans enjoying the game, you don't tend to see as many following the stricter Muslim countries like Saudi or Iran.

 

[SalimBhai]

You're right it's just speculation, but the truth is they probably weren't a badly behaved bunch, most of them looked in great spirits. Another nice thing to see was there was lots of female fans enjoying the game, you don't tend to see as many following the stricter Muslim countries like Saudi or Iran.

Agreed 100 percent. Also mind you some really nice looking ones also

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Seems like some Islamophobes have jumped the gun in this thread, now reports are emerging that around 40 right wing nazis were trying to reach the Champs-Elysees in order to spark violence. Ease up on the salt guys, [MENTION=141306]sweep_shot[/MENTION] is right, just enjoy the football.

 

[JaDed]

This is just speculation but the good behavior of moroccan fans in Qatar could also be due to the reaction they know would come from Qatari authorities.

Actually they are pretty good immigrants, majority of the Libyan,Moroccan,Egyptian atleast ones I have encountered are pretty progressive in States but who knows what effects Europe have on them, I personally find European Desis equally obnoxious.

 

[SalimBhai]

Seems like some Islamophobes have jumped the gun in this thread, now reports are emerging that around 40 right wing nazis were trying to reach the Champs-Elysees in order to spark violence. Ease up on the salt guys, [MENTION=141306]sweep_shot[/MENTION] is right, just enjoy the football.

I think the right answer is there were Right wing people and hooligan moroccan things also. The riots were in multiple countries, even Israel. Those 40 thugs could not be in all those places

 

[sweep_shot]

Actually they are pretty good immigrants, majority of the Libyan,Moroccan,Egyptian atleast ones I have encountered are pretty progressive in States but who knows what effects Europe have on them, I personally find European Desis equally obnoxious.

I think European cultures often encourage riots and bad behaviors. I can't explain but there is something.

 

[SalimBhai]

I think European cultures often encourage riots and bad behaviors. I can't explain but there is something.

If that was the case then other minorities would also behave badly. Its not the case.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Actually they are pretty good immigrants, majority of the Libyan,Moroccan,Egyptian atleast ones I have encountered are pretty progressive in States but who knows what effects Europe have on them, I personally find European Desis equally obnoxious.

There is probably something in that. We born Brits tend to take on a superior assumption, hence we refer to immigrants as freshies. It is just British culture rubbing off. And of course, in many ways we are superior. I'm sure in some ways freshies will think they are superior too.

 

[ex-q-zit]

Morocco File Complaint With FIFA Over Refereeing In World Cup Semi-final Against France: Reports

Morocco lost to France 2-0 in the second semi-final of the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Wednesday. Goals from Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani for defending champions France brought an end to the memorable campaign of Morocco, who became the first African team to enter the semi-final of a World Cup. The country's football governing body - FRMF - has now lodged an official complaint to FIFA over refereeing in their loss to France, claimed several media reports.

According to the reports, referee Cesar Ramos denied Morocco two penalties in the first half of the semi-final. The Athletic quoted a statement from the FRMF as saying: "The FRMF has filed an official protest to FIFA regarding the grotesque refereeing of the France-Morocco match, especially following the two penalties not whistled for Morocco in the first half."

The FRMF added on their website that it "will not hesitate to defend the rights of our national team, demanding fairness."

According to Daily Mail, one of the alleged incident happened when Morocco forward Sofiane Boufal was booked for a foul on France left-back Theo Hernandez in the box. The latter had collide with Boufal inside the French box. Referee Ramos gave Boufal a yellow card.

Former England player Rio Ferdinand, while commentating for BBC studio, said: "I think anywhere else on the pitch that's a foul, so why is it not a penalty? That is out of order. I think it's a pen, he definitely doesn't deserve to get booked."

With the win France a final face-off with Argentina on Sunday. Morocco will face Croatia in the third-place play-off on Saturday.

NDTV

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Far right used it as an excuse. Quelle surprise

 

[SalimBhai]

Have you read other articles. States with video links Moroccan crowd firing fireworks on the police.

 

[SalimBhai]

@ sweepshot
I think the issues or question that comes up Is you objected to LGBTQ arm bands saying no politics at the world cup, its virtual signaling or woke. But you are ok with Palestinian flags at the World Cup. You are ok with protesting and taking time out of your day for it, but in Iran when women do it you called them " Women with low GPA" or questioned dont these women have jobs????? That just reeks of hypocrisy and it's very hard to take you seriously. For the record I support the Palestinians, the arm bands and women's rights in Iran.

No reply here sir?

 

[sweep_shot]

No reply here sir?

This is not the right thread for Iran or that stupid armband. Also, I missed your post.

To answer your question, I don't think that's hypocrisy.

There is no comparison between a legitimate issue like Palestine and artificially manufactured issues like LGBTQ or Iran protest.

 

[Sidilicious]

This is not the right thread for Iran or that stupid armband. Also, I missed your post.

To answer your question, I don't think that's hypocrisy.

There is no comparison between a legitimate issue like Palestine and artificially manufactured issues like LGBTQ or Iran protest.

And you and people who think like you, are the authority on what is a legitimate issue or not?

 

[MenInG]

More from Gianni Infantino, who was asked about the success of Morocco, who became the first African team to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup: "Morocco has played exceptionally well, with a great desire and undeniable quality. Reaching a semi-final is not done by chance, a result of a long-term effort.

"I would like to congratulate the other African teams as well. Senegal made it out of the group stage for example, having not done so last time.

"For many decades we have been talking about development of African football and when their time will come and I think their time has come. There will be double the African teams at the next World Cup and I am sure we can look forward to some more excellent performances."

 

[SalimBhai]

This is not the right thread for Iran or that stupid armband. Also, I missed your post.

To answer your question, I don't think that's hypocrisy.

There is no comparison between a legitimate issue like Palestine and artificially manufactured issues like LGBTQ or Iran protest.

Who are you to decide what is a legitimate issue