Morocco coach Waleed Ragragui asked the million dollar question why we, who are currently one of the top four teams in the world, can’t play the final of the World Cup. The policy of the coach of the team is to be clarified on Wednesday night regarding the history of being the first African team to play in the World Cup semi-finals. Morocco will face defending champions France. “We will fight with passion. Try your best to avoid failure. This time we have come to the World Cup to change the attitude of people on the mainland,” he says.
Morocco came two steps away from the crown following defeating the best teams from Belgium, Spain and Portugal. If they can defeat France this time, Qatar will witness an unparalleled African celebration.
“Before every game, people were thinking that we would be eliminated. And yet it remained. It is very close to making those sweet dreams come true. Now it will be our battle to own it. If it seems that playing the semi-final is enough, it cannot be accepted. We will not be satisfied with semis. Being the first African country to play in the semis is not enough. Go beyond it. It would be a crazy dream. But this is the stage where a little bit of madness is needed” – continued Rugargui.
In 1986, Morocco made a big performance in the World Cup before this. That day, he lost in the pre-quarters and was eliminated. The team is currently ranked 22nd in the world. Having already overthrown three giants in the top 10, Morocco is setting new records.
Belgium, who are second in the world ranking, were defeated by two one-sided goals in Qatar. The team that beat Spain on penalty kicks defeated Portugal without a single goal. Blitz raids by a team that is strong in defense often confuses the opposition. The method is to allow the ball to be played for as long as possible in one’s own half and rush towards the opposition net and score the goal.
At the same time, it will be a challenge for the team to have the back row injured when they come out tomorrow. Center back Naif Aguird and defender Romain Saiz are doubtful for Wednesday. It is estimated that around 20,000 Moroccans will come to Qatar Albayt Stadium to watch their favorite team play.