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The aftermath of Morocco’s elimination by France in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals continues to fuel debate. However, according to Hakim Doumou, a member of the steering committee of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), some reactions have crossed the line.
«The reactions were extreme and exceeded legitimate disappointment-fueled criticism,» he stated in an interview with Yabiladi, describing the online atmosphere as «toxic».
Doumou emphasizes that Moroccan fans need to better handle defeats, even after the nation’s significant international campaigns. «Mindsets must change. Defeat is part of sport,» he insisted.
«Theories about a fixed match are unacceptable»
While Doumou acknowledges that sporting criticism is valid, he draws the line when it morphs into personal attacks or conspiracy theories. Critiques of the coach's decisions, tactics, and player performances are acceptable, but they should not devolve into baseless claims.
«When it devolves into conspiracy theories, personal attacks, disgraceful insults, or rumors of a fixed match, that is unacceptable!»
The FRMF committee member views these excesses as reminiscent of the backlash following the Atlas Lions’ historic 2022 World Cup performance. «It’s the same old story as in 2022,» he lamented.
He noted that players themselves were affected by the negativity. «The players were deeply hurt by the extreme attacks and toxic behavior on social media,» he said.
Doumou explained that this culture of confrontation is not isolated to the national team, existing prominently around the Botola, where players, coaches, and club officials are frequently targeted online.
«We have inherited everything negative in sporting competitions,» he stated, describing an escalating issue. «Botola, AFCON, World Cup: the atmosphere is being poisoned by those chasing social media buzz,» he deplored.
Faced with some particularly vile posts, Doumou hinted at the possibility of legal action against those responsible for serious content, though the final decision rests with the FRMF president and legal committee.
Looking Ahead to 2030: Focusing on Youth
Despite the recent defeat, Doumou is eager to focus on Morocco's future in football, particularly the 2030 World Cup, in which Morocco will play a hosting role.
«We need to prepare for 2030 on solid foundations,» he said.
Doumou believes that Moroccan football has ample room for improvement, particularly regarding the integration of young players into clubs.
He argues that Botola teams do not sufficiently invest in young talent and calls on the FRMF to strongly encourage clubs to provide them with more playing time.
For Doumou, preparing for the 2030 World Cup should not solely focus on the national team’s performance. It requires comprehensive work within clubs, player development, and a broader shift in Moroccan football’s environment.
Such efforts, he asserts, are essential for Morocco to continue excelling at the top level while preventing future defeats from devolving into social media turmoil.
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