The US-Africa Leaders’ Summit discussions were put on hold while President Joe Biden of the United States and several of his guests watched some World Cup action.
The game in question being the second semi-final clash between Morocco and France at the Al Bayt stadium in Doha, Qatar.
A photo shared by the US president showed him seated in the company of among others, presidents George Weah and Muhammadu Buhari of Libéria and Nigeria respectively.
Ethiopian and Moroocan Prime Ministers, Abiy Ahmed Ali and Aziz Akhannouch were also watching the game as was Malawian president Lazarus Chakwera.
The performance of Morocco’s Atlas Lions at the 2022 World Cup did not only impress Moroccans, Africans and Arabs but also presidents of some powerful countries.
United States of America president, Joe Biden and French President, Emmanuel Marcron are two world leaders who have been awed by the spirited performance of the Atlas Lions.
In a social media post, President Biden announced that he watched Morocco’s 2-0 defeat to France with the Moroccan Prime Minister and despite the defeat was proud of the performance of the team.
More praise for Atlas Lions despite France defeat
Leading world sports journalist, Fabrizio Romano also reported that French president Emmanuel Marcron stormed the Moroccan dressing room after the game and commended them for their incredible run in the tournament, singling out midfielder Amrabat for praise as the best midfielder in the competition.
US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar also took to Twitter to shower praises on the Moroccan for becoming the first African country to reach the semi-final of the World Cup.
Former Arsenal and German midfielder Mesut Ozil who was at the Al Bayt Stadium to support Morocco also applauded them and so did Arsenal and Egyptian midfielder Mohammed Elneny.
Despite not making the final, Morocco are being hailed as true winners as the upset odds to reach the semis.
During what hs been described as being historic as an incredible run, Morocco defeated Spain, Portugal and Belgium to set up a date with France.
Unfortunately for the Atlas Lions of Africa, they were overpowered by an efficient French team that scored through Theo Hernandez and Kolo Muani.
France will now play Argentina in the final on Sunday, December 18, 2022 but before then Morocco will take on Croatia in the third-place play-off.
Source: Ghanaweb