By Nada Didouh (Fès, Morocco, Special Envoy)
Since the onset of the World Cup, each match involving the Atlas Lions had transformed into a jubilant celebration. Streets, cafes, and fan zones pulsated with the energy of supporters, fueled by the rhythmic beats of drums, the blaring of trumpets, and the waving of red flags. When Moroccans are joyous, their voices resonate powerfully.
However, on Thursday, July 9, in Fès, after the Atlas Lions suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to France, the vibrant sounds of celebration were abruptly silenced, giving way to an unusual and heavy quiet. The giant screens went dark immediately following the final whistle, and within moments, the thousands of supporters gathered in the Boujloud fan zone, located at the gates of the historic medina, departed in a somber silence. There were no honking horns, no chants in the streets, and no music to extend the evening festivities.
The disappointment across the kingdom is monumental, mirroring the hopes that had infused the atmosphere just hours prior. "They made us believe anything was possible. I can’t comprehend why our journey ends here," sighed Khalid Elmahdali, still wearing his red and green flag. "It feels so unjust; it’s always the same team that sends us home." The sting of this defeat is even more pronounced as the supporters of the Lions had envisioned a historic evening, seeking revenge against the French team that had previously thwarted their dreams in the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup.
As reported by lemonde.fr.
