When Mom Wept, Morocco Found Its Rising Star: A Call-Up That Sparks World Cup Dreams
25 March 2026
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Yassin Jasim, the latest addition to Morocco’s national squad, spoke about his emotions after earning a call-up to represent the Atlas Lions for the first time, as the team gears up for two friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
In statements to the Moroccan Football Federation’s official media today, Jasim described the moment: “I was overwhelmed… I was at the hotel, waiting for the press conference, and by chance I glanced at the squad list.”
The 20-year-old Strasbourg player then shared how he felt joining a group he once watched on TV: “This is amazing, because not long ago we were all just watching them from home; now I’m here, hoping to learn from them and contribute.”
Asked about integrating with his teammates, he added: “It’s really wonderful. We’ve connected well, and they’ve offered us valuable guidance.”
He continued about the personal side: “When I saw my name, I felt proud… I called my family, my parents, relatives, and agents to tell them the news. They were incredibly happy; my mother cried tears of joy, and her pride carried me to this level.”
Reflecting on life with the national team, he noted: “This is an amazing environment. Even a short while ago we were watching them on TV, dreaming of playing alongside them.” He emphasized the camaraderie and the constructive advice he’s received from teammates.
Punchlines aside, the moment signals a hopeful chapter for Morocco’s youth pipeline and a personal milestone for Jasim as he steps toward the 2026 World Cup dream. And if mom’s tears were any indication, the journey has already won half the battle.
