While the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations has yet to reach its final verdict, reactions are multiplying regarding the quality of the organization in Morocco. And the consensus is largely unanimous: the Kingdom of Morocco is impressing. Since the start of the competition, players, managers, and officials have praised the modern infrastructure, the smooth logistics, and above all, the warm welcome extended to the delegations.

With the notable exception of South African coach Hugo Broos, who has repeatedly criticized what he calls "deplorable organization", the majority of those involved in the tournament say they are fully satisfied with their stay in Morocco.

Among them was Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian star and Liverpool striker made a point of publicly expressing his gratitude on Saturday evening, just after the Pharaohs' qualification for the semi-finals, secured against Ivory Coast (3-2). Named man of the match, the Egyptian captain took the opportunity during the post-match press conference to thank the tournament hosts.

“I would like to thank Morocco for the exceptional organization,” said Salah. “The security and order conditions are remarkable. Honestly, I have never participated in a competition in Africa with such a high level of organization. A big thank you to the Moroccan people, and I wish them every success.”

A powerful statement from a player with immense experience. Mohamed Salah is indeed playing in his fifth Africa Cup of Nations, which reinforces the weight of his assessment.

A few hours later, another significant tribute came from Samuel Eto'o. The president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot) also wanted to commend the Moroccan organization, despite Cameroon's elimination in the quarterfinals against Morocco (0-2). In an official letter addressed to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, the former FC Barcelona and Inter Milan striker expressed his "fraternal thanks."

"On behalf of the Cameroonian delegation and supporters, I extend our respectful greetings and sporting congratulations, in a spirit of fair play and mutual consideration," the letter made public reads.

This gesture was by no means a foregone conclusion. The pre-match period had been marked by intense tensions between Samuel Eto'o and Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Moroccan Football Federation, particularly regarding the controversial appointment of the referee. Despite this tense atmosphere, the Cameroonian official was keen to put aside the disagreements to emphasize "the exemplary quality of the competition's organization" as well as "the fraternal, warm, and benevolent welcome extended to the Cameroonian team, delegation, and supporters by the Moroccan people."

Without dwelling on the penalty not awarded to Bryan Mbeumo, a refereeing decision that angered Cameroonian fans, Eto'o preferred to highlight the professionalism of the organizers. "The displays of hospitality observed in all the venues visited testify to the remarkable preparatory work carried out by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation," he added.

In conclusion, the head of Fecafoot wished the Atlas Lions good luck for the rest of the competition, recognizing the quality of the performance made by the Moroccan team in front of their home crowd.