SAMSUL AREFIN KHAN

Traditionally, African nations have been among the most underrated sides in the FIFA World Cup. Although no African nation has ever won the tournament or reached the final in any of its previous 22 editions, their steady rise on the global football stage has gradually changed perceptions about their prospects in the sport’s biggest event.

Take Morocco, for instance. Four years ago in Qatar, the reigning African champions became the first African nation to reach the semifinals. Even in this edition, they are considered one of the strongest sides among the 48 participating teams, capable of replicating that feat -- or perhaps going even further.

Morocco’s opening-match performance against five-time champions Brazil has only strengthened that belief. The Atlas Lions held the Selecao to a 1-1 draw and arguably looked the better side against the record world champions.

Morocco’s rise is a reflection of the steady progress African nations have made in the World Cup over the years.

From Roger Milla’s Cameroon becoming the continent’s first quarterfinalists in 1990 after stunning defending champions Argentina in the opening match, to debutants Senegal matching that feat in 2002 by defeating reigning champions France on their way to the last eight, and Ghana coming a successful penalty kick With Cape

SEE PAGE 2 COL 4