The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has issued a statement solidifying the enduring relationship between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
This follows a heated uproar among the two sides involving players and coaches during their clash between the two sides in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, despite the contentious 1-1 draw.
The FRMF’s statement emphasised the historical ties and exceptional cooperation between the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA). It pointed to the significant number of Congolese players practicing in Morocco and the existing partnership agreement as a testament to the strong bond between the two nations.
“We condemn all unsportsmanlike behavior that followed this match, without entering into the logic of the accusations,” the statement read, underlining the commitment to fair play and mutual respect.
The FRMF highlighted President Fawzi Lakjaa’s commendable act of being the first to congratulate Congolese national team coach Sebastien Desabre, showcasing high sportsmanship values.
The statement also acknowledged Moroccan international Ashraf Hakimi’s vigilant monitoring of the treatment of Congolese player Henoc Inonga Baka as a demonstration of the commitment to fair play.
Despite ongoing investigations by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) into the controversies surrounding the match, the FRMF remains steadfast in its dedication to the values of sportsmanship, ethics, and fair play. The statement strongly asserts that the recent events will not impact the fraternal ties between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As the world awaits the CAF’s findings, the FRMF’s commitment to preserving the spirit of brotherhood between the two nations stands as a reassuring focal point amidst the post-match controversies.
Meanwhile the two sides will know their fate in the final round of group games as DR Congo play Tanzania while Morocco face Zambia on Wednesday night.