When football becomes a reflection of disorder: Morocco and the logic of the island

The final between Morocco and Senegal was not just a match, but an ethical and behavioural test for a continent that still cannot separate sport from chaos, nor competition from disorder. In the stands, which should have been celebrating the spectacle, tension prevailed; and in an environment that should have been celebrating achievement, primitive reactions took over, as if progress were still an uncomfortable guest in a collective consciousness that has yet to assimilate the true meaning of fair play.

Morocco, which offered Africa the best organisation in the history of its tournaments — with modern infrastructure, international-standard stadiums and efficient logistics — showed that it is moving forward on a different path from that of improvisation. However, the paradox is that this progress is not always met with recognition, but with suspicion and provocation, as if success were a fault that deserved to be questioned.

The behaviour of some actors, especially the Senegal coach, was not up to the task. Instead of focusing on sporting performance, he opted for a discourse laden with insinuations and controversy.

This type of ‘off-field strategy’ does not reflect strength, but rather mental fragility in the face of an organisational and sporting experience that far exceeded the usual standards of African football.

This is where the idea of the thinker Abdallah Laroui about ‘Morocco as an island’ makes sense. The country, due to its historical choices, is no longer governed by herd logic, but by that of a state that plans, builds and invests in the future. While others remain trapped in emotional reaction, Morocco is committed to stability, modernisation and long-term vision. The difference is no longer just one of means, but of mentality.

When critical and noisy voices arise, it is a sign that progress is being made. Morocco does not need applause from an unstable environment, because true success is measured by continued progress, not by external recognition.

Perhaps the time has come for Moroccans to ask themselves honestly: why remain tied to a sporting arena that does not match our ambitions? Why not aspire to compete in contexts where rules, professionalism and serenity prevail? European football, with its organisational rigour and competitive culture, seems closer to the logic of modern Morocco than certain tournaments marked by tension and improvisation.

Morocco is not advancing because others are retreating, but because it is charting a different course. An island in the middle of a stormy sea, sailing without paying attention to the background noise.