August 03, (THEWILL) – Morocco’s remarkable triumph in the final group stage match at the 2023 FIFA World Cup has paved their way to the knockout stages.
The victory places them in second position in the group, with Colombia leading the pack and unexpectedly knocking out two-time champion Germany from the tournament. The latter needed a victory against South Korea but was held to a 1-1 draw, leading to their early exit.
Having previously reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup with their men’s team, Morocco has now achieved another milestone by becoming the second African nation to progress to the knockout stages of both the men’s and women’s World Cups in successive tournaments, following in the footsteps of Nigeria in 1998 (men’s) and 1999 (women’s).
The Atlas Lionesses have captivated Moroccan football fans with their historic qualification and securing their first-ever win. The upset against Colombia, leading to Germany’s elimination, has left pundits and spectators in awe, as it defied most expectations heading into the tournament. It is also the first time in history that three African countries will progress to the knockout stages.
In a significant turn of events, Morocco’s men’s team made World Cup history last year, advancing to the round of 16 for the first time since 1986 and becoming the first African or Arab nation to reach a World Cup semifinal. Meanwhile, Colombia’s victory in the group stages marks a momentous occasion as they secure the top spot for the first time in their team’s history and advance to the knockout rounds for the first time since 2015.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
