Antonio Rüdiger says Morocco has become “a source of pride” for African football

Germany defender praises Morocco’s progress ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup

Real Madrid and Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger has praised Morocco’s rise in international football, describing the country’s achievements as “a source of pride” for Africa and highlighting the progress made over the past two decades.

Speaking on Thursday in Washington, Rüdiger said Moroccan football had experienced remarkable growth under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and had become a model for the continent following its recent successes on the international stage.

The Germany international also expressed confidence in Morocco’s preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal.

Morocco’s achievements recognised

During his remarks, Rüdiger reflected on Morocco’s progress over the last 10 to 20 years and pointed to the national team’s achievements on the world stage.

“I think Morocco has done a great job over the last ten or twenty years. And then, it was the first African team to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup.

That’s really something we’re proud of,” Antonio Rüdiger, who is also president of the eponymous foundation that promotes education and sports development in schools in Sierra Leone, told MAP.

His comments highlighted Morocco’s growing influence in international football and the wider significance of its achievements for African football.

Confidence in the 2030 World Cup

Rüdiger also turned his attention to Morocco’s role as one of the hosts of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

He praised the country’s preparations and infrastructure, saying recent organisational successes demonstrated its readiness for one of football’s biggest events.

The defender referred to the successful organisation of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, describing the tournament as “a beautiful chapter” in the history of African football.

Looking ahead to the World Cup, he expressed confidence in what supporters around the world could expect from the tournament.

“I therefore think that the world will enjoy this great World Cup,” which will also “build bridges between Africa and Europe,” he said.

Remarks made at Washington conference

Rüdiger made the comments on the sidelines of a conference-debate organised by the American think tank Atlantic Council.

The event was held under the theme “Passing the torch: building the legacy of the World Cup” and brought together the ambassadors of Morocco, Spain and Portugal.

The discussion focused on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup and preparations for the 2030 tournament, which will be jointly organised by the three countries.

During the event, Rüdiger reiterated his admiration for Morocco’s football development, emphasising both the sporting achievements of the national team and the country’s organisational progress.

His remarks added to the growing international recognition of Morocco’s recent football successes, with the Real Madrid defender describing the country’s journey as one that has become a source of pride not only for Moroccans but also for the wider African continent.

He also expressed optimism that the 2030 FIFA World Cup would strengthen ties between Africa and Europe while showcasing Morocco’s ability to host football’s biggest global competition.