The Moroccan flag could be seen flying everywhere in Doha as fans continued to celebrate the team's amazing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 journey.
Morocco's victories over footballing powerhouses and their march to the semi-finals have brought the Arab world together, from Doha to Casablanca and beyond, with the celebrations reflecting the Arab unity.
Fans carrying the flags of Morocco, Qatar, Palestine and Saudi Arabia, among other Arab nations, welcomed the Atlas Lions' victory in style at Souq Waqif, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Darb Lusail, metro stations and the streets of Doha.
“Morocco’s victory gives us much pleasure,” Lutfi Yunus from Egypt told *Gulf Times. “And Morocco has inspired Arab pride.”
Morocco defeated Portugal 1-0 in a quarter-final clash at Al Thumama Stadium on Saturday, becoming the first Arab or African team to make it to the last four of the tournament.
Hundreds thronged Souq Waqif to buy Moroccan flags and red-and-green jerseys.
“We are glad that our country is hosting this amazing tournament in which our Arab brothers have had this historic achievement,” a Qatari fan said while celebrating with the Moroccan flag at Msheireb Downtown Doha. “They deserve our support and we are here for our brothers with our bodies and hearts.”
Cars draped in the Moroccan flag could be seen on streets across the Qatari capital.
“The victory is not about a simple victory in a football match. The Arabs have left a mark in Doha,” said Morocco fan Marouane Belmehdi, adding that the fans and players feel at home in Qatar. “Everybody here chants ‘Long Live Morocco' and lines up with us while celebrating. We are glad to see our brothers’ support and enthusiasm and we owe them much for everything.”
“The Arab pride, you can feel it on the streets,” he said. “The buildings are lit up while marking the Qataris’ affection and love towards us."
Ilias Bensedira, another Moroccan national, said cities in Arab countries were filled with overwhelming joy as people raised the flag and chanted slogans in celebration of the victory.
“The entire Arab world is excited and overwhelmed by the Moroccan national team's performance.
Our team will make it to the final while meeting the expectations of the Arab community across the world,” he added.
Morocco will play against France in the semi-finals.
Morocco fans celebrate in Souq Waqif.
