Cash-strapped Moroccans Find Joy In World Cup Run

Cash-strapped Moroccans find joy in World Cup run

Moroccan moped driver El Haj Mohamed is in high spirits as his country's top footballers gear up for a historic World Cup clash against France, a welcome break from daily economic pain

Sal, Morocco, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Dec, 2022 ) :Moroccan moped driver El Haj Mohamed is in high spirits as his country's top footballers gear up for a historic World Cup clash against France, a welcome break from daily economic pain.

"This team has let us forget everything, high prices and the rest. My mood has changed," he said as he took a break from making deliveries in a market in Sale, a city adjoining the capital Rabat.

Morocco are the first African and Arab team ever to make the semi-finals of a World Cup, and their remarkable run has given residents of the North African kingdom a temporary distraction from their tough economic situation.

King Mohammed VI even made a rare public appearance in the streets of Rabat after the team's surprise victory against Spain in the round of 16.

Trader Ayoub, who wore a red Morocco jersey, said he was "proud of what they've achieved", even if he can only dream of being in Qatar to see them play.

"It's great to see them bring happiness to Arabs and Africans," he said.

Better-off Moroccans have paid around 450 Euros ($480) for return flights to Qatar.