Moroccan boxer Khadija Al-Mardi has advanced to the quarterfinals in the under 75 kg weight category at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, following a thrilling victory over British competitor Chantelle Reed in the Round of 16 with a judges’ decision of (3-2) today.
This result comes after her compatriot, Widad Bertal, advanced to the quarterfinals in the under 54 kg weight category yesterday, having overcome Thai fighter Jutamas Jitpong by the same judges’ decision of (3-2).
On the other hand, Moroccan boxer Yasmeen Mattaki was eliminated in the Round of 16 in the under 50 kg weight category after losing decisively to Philippine fighter Aira Fiecas with a unanimous judges’ decision of (5-0).
Analysis:
Khadija Al-Mardi’s advancement to the quarterfinals is a significant achievement, but it raises questions about whether this progression will translate into an Olympic medal for Morocco or merely mark the end of our aspirations for this event. Given the recurring disappointments experienced by Moroccan sports in previous Olympic Games, the joy and hope of securing medals seem elusive.
With the previous disappointment of failing to secure medals at the Tokyo Olympics, there is a prevailing sense of pessimism regarding Moroccan sports’ ability to overcome global challenges.
At “Morocco Now” newspaper, while we do not wish to succumb to pessimism, the repeated failures make it difficult to ignore the growing concern about the future of Moroccan sports on the international stage.
Questions Raised:
- Does Khadija Al-Mardi’s advancement to the quarterfinals indicate that Morocco is on the path to winning an Olympic medal, or will this advancement be merely a transient milestone in a challenging journey?
- Will this Olympic Games mark the beginning of a positive turnaround for Moroccan sports, or will history repeat itself with the usual failures?
- Why do expectations in Moroccan sports always seem to be tinged with pessimism, despite the efforts made and individual achievements?
- Will Moroccan sports officials take serious steps to correct the course and avoid past mistakes, or will the challenges remain in future events?
These questions come at a crucial time as Moroccans look forward to significant achievements at the Olympic Games, hoping that this event will finally bring the long-awaited success and excellence.
