Morocco’s World Cup stars had been greeted by hundreds of followers on their return to Rabat, with an open prime bus parade held for Walid Regragui’s facet after their fourth place end in Qatar.
The Atlas Lions’ gorgeous run to the World Cup semi-finals was one of many memorable storylines from the match, earlier than their eventual 2-0 loss to defending champions France.
Regragui’s facet grew to become the primary African and Arab nation to succeed in the final 4 of the World Cup, after incomes a collection of shock victories.
Crowds gathered the streets in Rabat after Morocco’s squad returned residence from Qatar
Morocco completed fourth after a historic run to the World Cup semi-finals
Morocco overcame 2018 semi-finalists Belgium within the group stage, earlier than beating Spain on penalties after a goalless draw within the last-16.
The historic semi-final was secured with a 1-0 victory over Portugal within the final eight, with Achraf Hakimi and Sofyan Amrabat amongst these to star in Qatar.
Morocco had been backed with appreciable assist all through the match, with hundreds of followers travelling to the Gulf nation to comply with the shock run into the latter levels.
The staff had been greeted by comparable numbers on their return residence, with crowds lining the streets in assist of the staff carrying flares and flags.
King Mohammed VI honoured the staff after turning into Africa’s first World Cup semi-finalists
The Moroccan squad had been joined by their moms on the reception within the Royal Palace
A reception was held at Morocco’s Royal Palace with the squad greeted by King Mohammed VI, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Prince Moulay Rachid.
King Mohammed had been seen amongst followers celebrating Morocco’s World Cup success throughout the competitors, having been seen sporting the staff equipment in a automobile.
Regragui and Moroccan Federation of Soccer President Faouzi Lekjaa had been made commanders of the Order of the Throne, the second class honour awarded by the King.
Morocco’s gamers had been awarded officer standing, the third highest award.
The gamers had been joined by their moms on the occasion, with their celebrations on the pitch throughout the match having been proven worldwide.
Morocco had been crushed 2-1 by Croatia within the third-placed playoff, with coach Regragui expressing his satisfaction at his facet’s run.
‘Earlier than the match we got 0.01 per cent probability of doing this, and we obtained to the final 4,’ Regragui mentioned.
‘We at the moment are one of many prime 4 groups on this planet, and in case you had instructed me that earlier than the match I might have taken it. I might not have modified something.’
