World Cup 2022 in Qatar: Morocco become first African country to reach semifinals |12 December 2022
Mrs Moustache-Belle joining in the celebrations
Seychellois Jacqueline Moustache-Belle joins in celebrations in Rabat
Morocco have written a new chapter to world football history by becoming the first African team to reach the semifinals of a World Cup on Saturday night and Seychellois Jacqueline Moustache-Belle watched the match in a pub in the capital city ‒ Rabat ‒ to live the experience with the Moroccans before joining the celebrations in the streets.
With all the odds stacked against them, Morocco edged Portugal 1-0 at the Al Thumama Stadium to continue their sparkling run in Qatar.
Three minutes before halftime, Yahia Attiyat-Allah floated the ball perfectly into the penalty area and Youssef En-Nesyri rose highest, far above Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa and defender Rúben Dias, to head it into the net, Morocco’s defence once again kept a clean sheet.
The Atlas Lions have become one of the stories of the tournament, holding fellow semifinalists Croatia to a draw in the group stage, and defeating Belgium, Spain and now Portugal on their way to a semifinal.
“I never imagined I would be so lucky to live such an experience. It is beautiful and out of this world. I can say it is an experience of a lifetime. Now being in Morocco, my current country of residence, this celebration is also mine!” Morocco-based Jacqueline Moustache-Belle told Sports NATION.
When asked if she thinks Morocco could go all the way to the final, she answered: “Why not?”
“I am certain no one expected them to reach the semifinal. It is the time for Africa and Asia, but especially Africa to shine. Africa is now turning into the football giants. The Europeans have had their era. I am so proud of this achievement. Every able body is in the streets celebrating in Morocco, celebrating in Africa. The world is celebrating the success of Morocco and celebrating Africa. It is a pity for those who can’t acknowledge the African DNA in us to celebrate and share this victory together,” said Mrs Moustache-Belle.
In the semifinal on Wednesday December 14, The Atlas Lions will face France who defeated England 2-1 in the day's other quarterfinal match.
« Ecrire l’histoire du football africain avec un stylo marocain »
Gerard Govinden