Maghreb (North Africa) and African residents of France lived the spirit of the African Cup of Nations, but not in Egypt.
Rabat – A Moroccan squad has won the popular streets African Cup of Nations, which took place in Creteil, a commune in the southeastern suburbs of Paris, France on Sunday.
The final game ended with Morocco’s victory against Tunisia (9-4).
Le Parisien reported that the competition attracted 2,000 spectators during the semi-final held on Thursday.
On Sunday, the number of people doubled to reach 4,000 spectators, who attended the final between Tunisia and Morocco on Sunday, an unexpected number for the organizes.
The news outlet reported that a Franco-Senegalese resident Moussa Sow launched the “Living together” idea without expecting a nod from the African and Maghreb youth living in France.
“Wherever we go, every day in the city, in the streets, in mosques, churches, and in supermarkets, people only talk about that! The last time Creteil vibrated [with such excitement], it was for the Senegal – Cameroon friendly match in 2005. It’s a huge pride.”
Iliass, a Moroccan man living in Essonne commented on the competition emphasizing that “it is only fun.”
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He also added that he and his friends will convene for drinks to celebrate the win.
Later in June, Egypt will host the 2019 African Cup of Nations, with the participation of Morocco’s national football team, one of the favorites to win the title.
Morocco’s national football team will play two friendlies in preparation for the game. The first friendly will be against Gambia on June 12, while the second friendly game will take place on June 16 against Zambia.
The CAN will start on June 21 in Egypt.