Morocco made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics, reaching their first-ever men’s football semi-final with a commanding 4-0 victory over the United States on Friday.
The victory sets up a tantalizing semi-final clash for Morocco against either Japan or Spain in Marseille.
The Atlas Lions showcased their attacking prowess and tactical superiority in a match that will long be remembered by fans at the Parc des Princes.
From the opening whistle, Morocco dominated proceedings, with their high-pressing game and swift counterattacks causing constant problems for the American defense.
The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Soufiane Rahimi converted a penalty, his fifth goal of the tournament, after Nathan Harriel’s clumsy challenge in the box.
The USA struggled to gain a foothold in the match, with Morocco’s midfield trio of Abde Ezzalzouli, Ilias Akhomach, and Amir Richardson controlling the tempo and creating numerous chances.
The Americans’ brief resurgence early in the second half was quickly extinguished as Morocco stepped up a gear.
Akhomach doubled Morocco’s lead in the 63rd minute, finishing off a well-worked move down the left flank.
The goal seemed to deflate the USA, and Morocco capitalized on their opponents’ fragile state of mind.
Just seven minutes later, Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi showcased his class with a sublime solo effort, gliding through midfield unchallenged before finding the bottom corner from outside the box.
As the match entered its final stages, Morocco continued to press, and their efforts were rewarded with a second penalty in stoppage time.
El Mehdi Maouhoub stepped up to convert, putting the finishing touch on a memorable night for Moroccan football.
On this form, the Atlas Lions will fancy their chances against any opponent as they continue their quest for Olympic glory.
As the final whistle blew, the Moroccan players and fans celebrated a historic achievement, while coach Tarik Sektioui’s astute tactics and team selection were vindicated in the most emphatic manner possible.