Moroccan footballers' love for football and their moms

SHAH ALAM - Morocco, an African football team which shocked the world in a series of unexpected wins in the World Cup, not only demonstrated exceptional play tactics but never-before-seen field show..

These players including their coach were seen to have shared the joy of winning with their mothers who were present at the stadium, to support their children.

These scenes were new and first in the realm of football.

It is undeniable that the Islamic religion gives great value to parents and commands to respect them, obey them and be kind to them no matter what. As Allah SWT says in the Quran: “Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents” (Quran, 4:36).

The African team had five unbeaten games from group stage to semifinal. They, however, lost to France 2-0 in the semifinal.

After Morocco defeated Portugal 1-0 last Saturday, which saw them advance to the semifinals as the first African and Arab team, midfielder Sofiane Boufal, who was born in France, danced with his mother on the pitch.

To the joy of the audience, they performed a circle dance while holding hands.

Achraf Hakimi, a defender who was born and raised in Madrid, posted pictures on social media of his mother kissing him on the cheek after he successfully converted the game-winning penalty against Spain in the round of 16 last week, along with the remark, ‘I love you mom’.

Hakimi’s mother, Sadia Mouth, used to work cleaning houses in Spain to provide a better life for son, while his father, Hassan Hakimi, earns a living as a street vendor.