Morocco’s national soccer team is set to receive a hero’s welcome upon their return home after achieving an extraordinary fourth-place finish in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Tens of thousands are expected to line the streets of Rabat and other cities across the North African kingdom to celebrate the historic achievement. Known as the Atlas Lions, the team made waves as the first African and Arab nation to reach the semifinals, capturing global admiration along the way.

Morocco’s impressive run included victories over former colonial powers Belgium, Spain, and Portugal, before they narrowly lost to France in the semifinals and to Croatia in the third-place match. For many Moroccans, this record-setting journey has reignited national pride and set new expectations for future tournaments. Following their arrival, the players are set to tour the capital in an open-top bus, ending with a royal reception by King Mohammed VI to honor their success.

The Atlas Lions’ success resonated with fans across Africa and the Arab world, with celebrations marking the team’s wins and symbols like the Palestinian flag visible in their post-game festivities. As Morocco looks to a promising football future, hopes grow that the country may one day host a world-class tournament, bringing both international attention and increased tourism to the nation.