Morocco’s footballers unite Arab world as they go for glory at Qatar 2022

Just 180 minutes. That’s how close Morocco, now preparing for Saturday’s last-eight showdown with Portugal, are to the World Cup final, how close the Arab region is to having a representative in the biggest game of the biggest sporting event there is and how close they are to shaking international football to its very foundations.

Now that the ultimate glory can almost be touched, those who rise to the occasion will see their names immortalized. And they will have the support of not only their home nation but all Arab fans and, probably, much of the world.

Whatever happens in the next week or so, Morocco have earned international respect and genuine admiration. There are pundits in Europe discussing the most effective ways that teams can penetrate the best defense in the tournament so far. In four games, the Reds have conceded just once, a fluke own goal in a 2-1 win over Canada in the final group game. That gave them the top spot following an opening 0-0 draw against Croatia, runner-up in 2018, and a 2-0 win over Belgium, ranked second in the world by FIFA. Only two teams, Netherlands and England, could match the seven points collected by Walid Regragui’s men. It is the highest tally by any Arab team in the history of the tournament.

Then came the second round against Spain, the 2010 champions. The Europeans had more possession, but the Africans had better chances. After 120 minutes with no goals, Morocco approached the penalty shootout with gusto and ended up winning 3-1. The sight of Achraf Hakimi producing a perfect Panenka penalty to clinch the last eight spot not only sent fans in the country wild with delight but also demonstrated the kind of confidence, self-belief and skill that now exists in the ranks.

Rig