Rabat – Morocco’s Football Federation has issued a statement regarding national team members’ perceived disrespect for the country’s national anthem. The October 9 match raised controversy as some Moroccan players were caught giggling while the national anthem was playing.
The event triggered public controversy as many Moroccans saw the moment as a sign of disrespect. The brief moment sparked debate online, with many commenters accusing the players of a lack of patriotism and respect for the national tune.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has released a statement stating that the concerned players (Zakaria Aboukhlal, Soufiane El Karouani, Samy Mmae and Anas Zniti), regretted their behavior, apologized and insisted that they are proud to wear the Moroccan jersey and defend its flag.
Supporters asked the FRMF to take disciplinary actions to avoid a repetition of what they perceived as disrespectful behavior. Other supporters defended the players arguing that the giggles were not linked to the national anthem and doesn’t indicate a lack of patriotism.
This incident is not isolated, several players are blamed for not singing the anthem or even not knowing it.
The FRMF is giving itself the resources to recruit new players and the Moroccan taxpayer expects in return that these players show their attachment to their motherland.
Players with dual nationality are closely watched for their perceived commitment to the nation.
For comparison, Italians are known for their enthusiasm during the national anthem “Fratelli d’Italia” (Brothers of Italy). Squadra Azzurra defender Leonardo Bonucci posted on Twitter in 2016, “Pure energy. Because we Italians do not sing the anthem. We live it.”.
Indeed, the Italian players don’t fake it and clutch each other during every intonation of their national anthem.
Thankfully the football game ended with a 3-0 victory for Morocco, reducing the public outrage over the affair.
Morocco is among the first countries to get their ticket for the last round of 2022 World Cup qualification with a perfect record so far.
