Al-Rahmouni: Recognition of Moroccan football extends from the players to the national frameworks.
Adel Rahmouni, the sports analyst and media figure, stated that what Morocco achieved in the 2022 World Cup and the subsequent accomplishments did not come by chance, but rather as a result of a strong royal will and the mobilization of significant logistical and material resources, alongside meticulous grassroots work.
During his appearance on the "Hespress Debate" program, the speaker reviewed a series of successes that confirm this tangible development across various categories, including the Olympic team (under 23) reaching the semi-finals of the Olympic Games, and the under-17 team winning the African Cup, not to mention the achievements of women's football with the national team and the girls' team qualifying for the second round of the World Cup.
Rahmouni pointed out that this radiance has made many Arab and African teams aspire to reach what Morocco has achieved, citing the poor results of some in their recent matches, such as Jordan's loss to Austria, and other setbacks, in contrast to the "reference" performance presented by the "Atlas Lions" against Brazil, which he considered a performance "that should be taught."
In response to the media attacks directed at Morocco, the analyst considered that fair sports competition is acceptable, but it becomes dangerous when it turns into hostility and infringes on sacred values.
The speaker revealed the existence of African "lobbies" behind the scenes that attempted to influence referees' decisions in crucial matches, such as the match between Morocco and Senegal for the under-17 category, by using "Bluetooth" technology to prevent the issuance of cards against opponents, which explains the federation's moves to resort to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Rahmouni emphasized that international recognition of Morocco is no longer limited to players, but has extended to national technical staff that are now infiltrating Arab and African clubs and teams. He provided notable examples, such as the Egyptian club Al Ahly's contract with national coach Hussein Amouta and his assistant staff, despite some reservations from certain Egyptian football figures, and the success of other Moroccan coaches like Tarek Skitiwi and Jamal Salami with the Jordanian national team.