Morocco's World Cup Exit Fails to Diminish National Pride

The sound of vuvuzelas faded across Morocco on Thursday as the country's World Cup dream came to an end with a 2-0 quarter-final defeat to France, inspired by Kylian Mbappe.

After thrilling fans with an impressive run through the tournament, Morocco were unable to reproduce their best form against the French in Foxborough, Massachusetts, bowing out after a below-par display.

Eighteen-year-old Azirar, who watched the match in Rabat, was left devastated by the result.

"It was a very difficult match for Morocco," he said, acknowledging that "France deserved to win."

Expectations had been soaring ahead of the 2026 World Cup after Morocco captivated the football world by reaching the semi-finals in Qatar four years earlier under the leadership of Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi.

That campaign also ended with a 2-0 defeat.

With the addition of highly rated youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi and the attacking flair of Ismael Saibari, many supporters believed Morocco had the quality to overcome France this time and return to the last four.

"I really thought we would win and make the semi-finals," said 24-year-old Mustapha Garni. "Unfortunately, it didn't happen."

'They fought until the end'

The atmosphere in Rabat had been electric before kickoff.

Packed cafes were filled with supporters draped in Moroccan flags and red-and-green scarves, who stood proudly to sing the national anthem alongside their team competing in the United States.

Fans erupted when goalkeeper Yassine Bounou denied Mbappe from the penalty spot in the 28th minute, but their celebrations proved short-lived.

Just after the hour mark, Mbappe curled home a superb strike beyond Bounou to break the deadlock, leaving the once-vibrant crowd in stunned silence. Some supporters stared in disbelief, while others slumped back into their seats.

The cheers briefly returned as Morocco searched for an equaliser, but the belief quickly faded when Ousmane Dembele sealed France's victory with a second goal.

Despite the disappointment, 26-year-old Ghizlane Elidrissi said the team had given supporters every reason to be proud.

"They fought until the very end," she said.

Moroccan fans can still look ahead with optimism. The country is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, offering another opportunity to shine on football's biggest stage.

"In four years, we hope to reach the final," Garni said.

"It's a dream that will always stay with us, and God willing, one day we will lift the World Cup."