It’s been 12 long years since Africa boasted a World Cup quarter-finalist, with the continent’s teams trying and failing to emulate Ghana at both the tournaments of 2014 and 2018.
The wait ended on Tuesday, as Morocco became Africa’s fourth ever quarter-finalists as they neutralised Spain during a 0-0 draw before outgunning La Roja on penalties.
It’s a magnificent moment for the Atlas Lions as they register their best ever World Cup performing—eclipsing the 1986 team who were eliminated by Germany in the Last 16—and making up for the failure of 2018, when a talented side fell in the group stage.
On that occasion, their final match ended in a 2-2 draw against Spain, with Iago Aspas netting a stoppage-time equaliser when, in truth, the Atlas Lions deserved the victory.
There was no such late lapse this time around, as Morocco defended stoutly, held their nerve, arguably had the better chances, and eventually saw off Spain on penalties as all three of the European takers missed their spotkicks.
It’s not just a historic moment for the North African nation, who only have one Africa Cup of Nations victory to their name, but also for countries from the region, as they mark the first tournament in the Middle East by becoming the first Arab nation to reach the Last Eight.
It will certainly please Fifa, who saw the 2022 tournament in Qatar as an opportunity to bring football to a new heartland, and Morocco’s triumph has clearly transcended beyond the country itself.
The atmosphere for the victory against Spain was among the most memorable of the tournament, with the Atlas Lions—as well as Tunisia and Saudi Arabia—enjoying immense support during the course of the competition.
Morocco can expect the same volume when they face either Switzerland or Portugal in their quarter-final in Doha on December 10th.
By this point, attention will be turning to Morocco’s prospects during the rest of the tournament, and whether this represents Africa’s best chance ever to go the distance.
They overcame a tricky group with victory over fancied Belgium—ranked second in the world—and by neutralising Croatia—finalists in 2018—and have now seen off Spain, neighbours, and 2010 world champions.
They won’t fear Portugal in their next match.