فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events that brings together the best national teams from around the world, and Morocco is one of the countries that has had a remarkable presence in this tournament since its first participation. Over the decades, Morocco’s national football team’s performances in the World Cup have been marked by several historic moments that have shaped the country’s football scene, making it one of the most influential nations in Africa and the Arab world. Here are the key milestones of Morocco in the World Cup, from its first appearance to its hosting of the tournament:
First Participation in the 1970 World Cup
Morocco’s journey in the World Cup began in the 1970 edition held in Mexico. The “Lions of the Atlas” became the first Arab and African team to participate in the global tournament. Although Morocco did not progress past the group stage, its participation was an important step in the country’s sporting history.
1986: The Best Achievement in World Cup History
Morocco’s participation in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico is one of the most significant moments in Moroccan football history. The Moroccan team made a historic achievement by reaching the Round of 16, becoming the first African and Arab team to reach this stage. The victories against England (1-0) and Portugal (3-1) were huge surprises for fans in Morocco and the Arab world. Although Morocco was eliminated from the tournament, the team’s performance in 1986 remained etched in memory and gave a strong boost to football in the country.
1994 and 1998: The Second and Third Appearances
In 1994, Morocco returned to the World Cup in the United States, but the team was unable to make it past the group stage. The same fate befell Morocco in the 1998 World Cup in France, where the team failed to advance, although Morocco performed well in a tough group, particularly in its match against Brazil.
2018: A Strong Return in Russia
After a 20-year absence from the global tournament, Morocco returned to the World Cup in Russia in 2018. Despite putting up strong performances against Iran, Portugal, and Spain, the team could not progress beyond the group stage. However, returning to the World Cup was seen as a revival of Moroccan football on the global stage.
Morocco Hosts the Club World Cup in 2014 and 2022
While Morocco has not yet hosted the World Cup for national teams, the country has hosted the FIFA Club World Cup twice: in 2014 and 2022. Morocco hosted several matches in cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, further enhancing its position in the international sports arena.
Bid to Host the 2026 World Cup
Although Morocco did not win the bid to host the 2026 World Cup, which was awarded to the joint proposal by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the country made a strong bid for the tournament. The campaign to host the World Cup was part of Morocco’s vision to strengthen its sports standing globally, and it received broad support from both the public and critics alike.
Over the years, Morocco’s participation in the World Cup has shown remarkable progress. From its first appearance in 1970 to its best achievement in 1986, through other participations, the Moroccan national team has always been regarded as one of the respected teams on the global stage. With its future aspirations, Morocco remains one of Africa’s champions, looking to achieve more international success, and perhaps one day, hosting the World Cup will become a reality.
Source: Fes News Media
