Morocco have become the first African side to reach the World Cup quarter-finals at two consecutive tournaments, following the 2022 semi-finalists' run to the last eight at the current finals. Having beaten the Netherlands and Canada in the knockout rounds, the Atlas Lions now face hosts France on Thursday at Boston Stadium, and their success has generated intense pride and celebration at home while highlighting the off-field struggles of other African nations.

The article contrasts Morocco's stability with the difficulties faced by Ghana and Senegal. Morocco's new coach Mohamed Ouahbi, appointed in early March after Walid Regragui's departure, had four years with the youth teams and oversaw five friendlies in preparation. By comparison, Ghana played only twice under Carlos Queiroz before their last-32 exit to Colombia, while Senegal squandered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to Belgium. Figures including former Cameroon goalkeeper Joseph-Antoine Bell and ex-Nigeria captain Sunday Oliseh argue that African teams will only fulfil their potential when their federations invest in proper governance and preparation, rather than blaming coaches alone.