The quarter-final matchup between Morocco and France stands out as one of the most captivating contests of the tournament. Morocco, the sole African representative still in the race, is pursuing its second consecutive appearance in the semi-finals. Insights from Osasu Obayiuwana shed light on this exciting clash.
Over the past sixty years, Morocco has reached several significant milestones for Africa in World Cup history. They were the first African nation to qualify directly for the World Cup in 1970, returning in 1986 to become the first team from the continent to reach the last 16, and they made an impressive semi-final run in Qatar four years ago.
Even if the Atlas Lions do not replicate their stellar 2022 performance by falling to France on Thursday, they will still make history as the first African team to compete in the quarter-finals in consecutive World Cups.
“The general feeling, amongst Moroccans, is pride and contentment in this team,” says Amine El Amri, a football journalist based in Casablanca who has been closely monitoring fan reactions to the team’s achievements. “The main goal before the competition was to reach the quarter-finals, particularly given the context, including the managerial change from Walid Regragui to Mohamed Ouahbi. The victory over the Netherlands solidified Ouahbi’s reputation as a reliable coach, dispelling many doubts about him after that match.
“The main goal before the competition was to reach the quarter-finals, given the context, given the change of manager, with the departure of Walid Regragui and the coming of Mohamed Ouahbi. I think the victory over the Netherlands cemented the reputation of Ouahbi as a trustworthy coach. Many doubts about him were cleared up after that match. “Beating Canada in the way we did, despite having a very difficult first half, has also added to that confidence. You have to be in Casablanca, in Marrakech, in every city and little town, to just measure how happy people are [with the team]. Our Saturday night was crazy – no one slept.”
In other news, Fulham has appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as their new head coach on a three-year contract. Arbeloa will be aiming for a smoother experience than he had during his tenure at Real Madrid. Here are the details.
Alvaro Arbeloa has officially taken on the role of Fulham’s head coach, signing a three-year deal.
The 43-year-old former Spain defender, who concluded last season leading his long-time club Real Madrid, replaces Marco Silva following the latter’s move to Benfica after completing his contract.
“It is a real honour for me to be embarking on this new stage at Fulham FC, the oldest club in London. “I feel a great sense of responsibility and I’m deeply grateful to Mr (Shahid) Khan and Tony Khan for the trust they have placed in me with Fulham in the Premier League. “I am really looking forward to experiencing the atmosphere at Craven Cottage with Fulham fans.” Arbeloa expressed.
“Alvaro was an original candidate who built an exceptional case through our meetings in June to become our next Head Coach, and it quickly became quite clear that he was – and is – the right choice. “I am delighted that Alvaro has accepted the challenge to push Fulham forward, and I have no doubt that our squad, staff and fans will resonate with what his appointment means for the present and future of our club.”
“Alvaro is, by his own admission, very ambitious. “He has spent quality time around the best players, clubs and methods in the game, experiences which will serve him well here at Fulham.” he added.
Fulham co-owner Shahid Khan remarked, “Alvaro was an original candidate who built an exceptional case through our meetings in June to become our next Head Coach, and it quickly became quite clear that he was – and is – the right choice.”
“I am delighted that Alvaro has accepted the challenge to push Fulham forward, and I have no doubt that our squad, staff, and fans will resonate with what his appointment means for the present and future of our club.”
He continued, “Alvaro is, by his own admission, very ambitious. He has spent quality time around the best players, clubs, and methods in the game, experiences which will serve him well here at Fulham.”
Greetings, everyone. Today marks a rare occurrence after four weeks of continuous World Cup action – a day without football! It’s the perfect opportunity to tackle that mountain of dishes, dust off the shelves, or organize the sock drawer. Alternatively, you could simply stare at the screen until the quarter-finals kick off on Thursday, or discuss the tournament here.
We now know all the teams that have advanced to the quarter-finals, following a day filled with the kind of thrilling games that World Cups are known for. This was a day marked by controversy and allegations of favoritism towards prominent teams and players, followed by a disappointing 0-0 tie where the side that squandered the most clear chances in 120 minutes ultimately lost in the shootout. Our sympathies go to Colombia and Egypt, while congratulations are in order for Switzerland, returning to the quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years, and Argentina.
Here’s the schedule for the upcoming quarter-finals:
9 July: France vs. Morocco (Boston, 4pm local/9pm BST/6am 10 July AEST)
10 July: Spain vs. Belgium (Los Angeles, 12pm local/8pm BST/5am 11 July AEST)
11 July: Norway vs. England (Miami, 5pm local/10pm BST/7am 12 July AEST)
12 July: Argentina vs. Switzerland (Kansas, 8pm local/2am BST/11am AEST)
Additionally, here are yesterday’s reports:
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- US sports
