Rabat: The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Morocco is “the best ever organized,” said Chris Woerts, Dutch expert in international football. ‘This 35th edition of AFCON not only highlighted Morocco’s ability to organize major sporting events, but also raised the standards of African football,’ emphasized Woerts, former director at English club AFC Sunderland.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the Dutch expert praised the quality of Moroccan organization and the optimal conditions in which the 35th AFCON took place, noting that this continental tournament offers a preview of what the 2030 World Cup will look like, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. “Morocco has brilliantly demonstrated that it is fully ready to welcome fans from around the world for this global event,’ he stressed.

Woerts, former director at Feyenoord Rotterdam, highlighted the central role of His Majesty King Mohammed VI in the development of national sports in general, and football in particular, noting that th
is rise illustrates a long-term vision for promoting sports and enhancing Morocco’s international profile. According to him, the recent achievements of Moroccan football, including fourth place at the 2022 World Cup, the U-20 World Championship title, the bronze medal at the Paris Olympic Games, and the runner-up position at the 35th AFCON, are the outcome of sustained efforts and major investments in both sports infrastructure and the development of young talent.

Woerts also emphasized the impact of Moroccan players competing in European leagues on the development of national football, noting that their experience has contributed to the Moroccan national team’s rise in the FIFA rankings, where it now stands eighth in the world.