Middle East Online
·Jul 2026
A new ‘Aix-les-Bains’... when the French complex returns to haunt Moroccan memory
The Moroccan defeat against France is portrayed as a moment that reawakened collective memory shaped by colonial history and complex political ties. While acknowledging the team’s poor performance and tactical shortcomings, the article stresses that the emotional weight of the loss stems from unresolved historical sensitivities and ongoing geopolitical issues, particularly regarding Western Sahara. Referencing the ideas of thinker Mehdi El Mandjra, it argues that remnants of past power dynamics still influence perceptions today. The article concludes that Morocco’s response should focus on strengthening national institutions, economic independence and sporting competitiveness rather than dwelling on historical grievances.