From the Arab World Institute to the Champs Élysées: Paris celebrates the Lions of the Atlas reaching the AFCON final
Like the wave of joy that swept across the Kingdom after the Lions of the Atlas qualified for the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, the French capital Paris also vibrated, from Wednesday night into Thursday, to the rhythm of celebration and victory, during a special evening held at the Arab World Institute.
This Parisian cultural institution took part in the festivities by organizing a live broadcast of the Morocco vs Nigeria match, in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in France, turning its spaces into a true fan zone in the colors of African stadiums.
From the match between Egypt and Senegal onward, crowds of enthusiastic supporters began to pour into the Institute. Coming from all corners of the Île-de-France region, they waved national flags and wore Lions of the Atlas jerseys, chanting and dancing to festive rhythms in an atmosphere marked by fervor and a spirit of togetherness.
At kick off of this decisive clash, which ended with Morocco securing qualification for the AFCON final, excitement reached another level inside the Institute. Every Moroccan attack was greeted with cheers and chants of “Sir, sir,” accompanied by the sounds of the daqqa marrakchia, giving the evening a distinctly Moroccan touch.
On this occasion, the President of the Arab World Institute, Jack Lang, who was present during the match, praised the performance and remarkable journey of the Lions of the Atlas, expressing his delight at the family atmosphere and the exceptional energy created by the strong turnout of supporters.
“We are proud to host the Lions of the Atlas match at the Arab World Institute. They are stronger, more dynamic and more intelligent in their play than ever. Their crowning would be a well deserved recognition of their immense talent,” Mr. Lang told the Maghreb Arab Press Agency.
He also hailed the “resounding success of the Lions of the Atlas” and congratulated the host country for “the excellent organization” of the Africa Cup of Nations, stressing that this edition “will remain historic.” Mr. Lang further stated that His Majesty King Mohammed VI “has succeeded in making Morocco a great African nation.”
Through this initiative, the Arab World Institute reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Arab and African cultures in all their forms, including sports, recalling that football has become a powerful vehicle for connection and sharing, linking Paris to Moroccan stadiums and offering the Moroccan community a rare moment of collective joy.
And the celebration did not stop at the Institute’s doors. After the final whistle, scenes of jubilation extended into the heart of the French capital, with festivities taking over the Champs Élysées until late into the night.
Editorial team/le7tv
