Morocco v France

ACCW in support of the only surviving African country in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar and first African country to reach the semi finals in a World Cup is organising a viewing with members. As one news headline put it, “After 92 years and 49 attempts, an African side reaches the World Cup semi-finals”.

The viewing event will be held at The Bond Sports Bar located at 12 Bond Street, Te Aro, Wellington from 8am to about 10am.

During the match, a TVNZ reporter would be on ground to interview members of the African community and friends of Africa about football and life back on the continent. We are happy to have members share other areas to showcase our contribution to New Zealand and Diaspora as a whole.

You do not need to purchase any ticket but just show up tomorrow morning. Please feel free to invite all friends of Africa and colleagues. Make arrangements with your employers where necessary (this is an exciting moment as we could potentially be in the finals of a World Cup!)

Highlights

What a gallant battle it was at Al Bayt Stadium from Morocco against the defending champions France. 

Hernandez’s 5th minute goal was a brutal setback but the Moroccan team fought till the very end. While Hernandez and Muani were the goal scorers, the enigma Mbappe and Giroud caused most of the chaos in the midfield and run of play against the Moroccan defence. 

The combinations from Ounahi and Hakimi caused lots of disruption along the right flank of the French defence. Those Ziyech’s corner kicks into the French six yard box was a constant nightmare. Much credits to the Moroccan coach with this first defeat since taking the helm of the national team.

Irrespective of the loss, history has been made as the first African country to reach the semi finals and possibly take the third or fourth place position moving forward. 

Thanks to all ACCW members who were able to attend and those who sent their apologies and best wishes including those cheering from home. Please see some moments during the TVNZ interview below.

ACCW President Kosam Nyamdela sharing his thoughts on the match to TVNZ
ACCW Financial Secretary Adam Awad sharing his thoughts on the match to TVNZ
First Row: ACCW Secretary (Wallace Imoudu Enegbuma)
Second Row: Wellington City Councillor (Nureddin Abdurahman)
Third Row: ACCW 2nd Vice President (Nigussie), Board Member and Head of Event Sub-Committee (Ras Judah) and South African Acting High Commissioner (Edgar Motsisi)