Atlas Lions: Lost the World Cup, but Won the Hearts of People

Rabat – Though they will not be taking home the trophy, the Atlas Lions’ uplifting displays at the World Cup have undoubtedly captured the hearts of people everywhere. Their historic run in the global tournament stopped in the semi-finals, but their legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and be passed down to future generations.

The news of their defeat to France did not incite outrage or upset among fans, as one might expect. Instead, there has been an outpouring of love, pride, and gratitude from fans across the world.

International football’s governing body FIFA highlighted Morocco’s journey in the World Cup on Twitter, saying: “An unforgettable run. Thank you for the memories, Morocco.”

An unforgettable run. Thank you for the memories, Morocco ??❤️
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 14, 2022

FIFA also shared a video on their Facebook page, describing Morocco as “Africa’s most sucessful team ever.” The video went on to present the North African country as “ a unique meltig pot of art, culture and football.”

It added, “The country reflects a rich history of Arab, African and European influence that gives Morocco a widespread cultural identity. They are as proud of their Arabic history as they are of their African identity and the 2022 World Cup has been the perfect display of this.”

Writing on Facebook, British politician and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan joined in the worldwide celebration of Morocco’s World Cup heroes. “Didn’t win the world cup, but won our hearts. Thank you Morocco!” the London mayor said in a post.

French international and Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe also took to Twitter to console and support his teammate and close friend Achraf Hakimi.

“Don’t be sad bro, everybody is proud of what you did, you made history,” Mbappe said in the tweet.

Don’t be sad bro, everybody is proud of what you did, you made history. ❤️ @AchrafHakimi pic.twitter.com/hvjQvQ84c6
— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) December 14, 2022

Similarly, US President Joe Biden praised the Atlas Lions’ historic achievement on Twitter, writing, “It was a great honor to watch today’s World Cup match alongside Prime Minister Akhannouch of Morocco.”

The US president went on to stress: “No matter who you’re rooting for, it was remarkable to watch how much this team has been able to achieve.”

Also joining the chorus of congratulations was the US ambassador to Morocco. Taking to Twitter, the American diplomat stressed that the Atlas Lions have inspired millions not just in Morocco but around the globe, and that they have shown they are incredibly skilled athletes and exemplary sportsmen.

“They can hold their heads high. We’ll be cheering for them Saturday,” added the ambassador.

Millions, not just in Morocco, but around the world, have been inspired by the Atlas Lions. They are incredibly skilled athletes and exemplary sportsmen. They can hold their heads high. We’ll be cheering for them Saturday.
— USAmbMorocco (@USAmbMorocco) December 14, 2022

Morocco’s Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social Economy, Fatima Zahra Amour, also highlighted the positive impact of Morocco’s national football team on the country’s tourism, saying that their stellar performance is sure to open up exciting tourism opportunities for Morocco.

“Morocco is now on the map of far more international countries beyond our traditional source markets,” Amour said.