Reflections on Morocco, Racism, Nationalism and Football

Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. I want to start with a quick note that I have no personal grudge against Moroccan people or the country - my concern is about the fallout from the recent AFCON. Many of you will know the tournament was full of controversy, but what worries me more is how people have reacted afterward. I came across some posts and comments saying Morocco should stop being kind to Sub‑Saharan Africans or foreigners generally, calling countries like Senegal, Algeria and Nigeria “uncivilised,” and downplaying what actually happened during the games that caused Morocco to lose public support. Those kinds of statements point to deeper problems: racism and excessive nationalism. I must be clear: this doesn’t describe all Moroccans, but a vocal group that’s spreading hurtful views. You see similar comments across social media - crude, demeaning words about other Africans, mocking poverty, labeling our brothers and sisters as thieves or uncivilised. That stings especially when it’s directed at Senegal, a fellow Muslim nation. It’s sad and ironic, because many Moroccans face similar struggles, yet some choose to demean others instead of showing compassion. We keep saying we are one ummah, but sometimes that sounds hollow when people take advantage of each other. We claim to be African, yet we too easily dehumanise one another over tribal lines, nationality or economic status. To those who think their country or social standing makes them superior: it doesn’t. What truly matters are your deeds - good and bad - and how you treat other people. What we’ve seen lately isn’t new, but it’s a reality many refuse to face. Racism, tribalism, sexism and similar ills exist within the Muslim community. Until we speak about them honestly and work to fix them, we fall short of the blessed state our ummah can be. If you’ve read this far, may Allah grant you benefits this Ramadan and beyond, and bless you and your loved ones. Barakallahu feekum