France, Morocco bring post-colonial ties and family feel to Boston

France and Morocco's World Cup quarter-final clash on Thursday is steeped in post-colonial history and personal connections, extending from players born and raised in France to the close friendship between stars Kylian Mbappe and Achraf Hakimi. While security is tight in France, the Boston setting is expected to foster a more familial atmosphere for this match between nations whose histories are inseparable.

Morocco was a French protectorate until 1956, and the countries maintain strong links through education, business, and migration. Football has become a significant expression of these ties, with six members of Morocco's current squad born in France. Several others have played in France's top league or gone through its youth system before choosing to represent Morocco, showcasing the diaspora's strength in competitive football.

Ayyoub Bouaddi, a young player born in France and developed at Lille, exemplifies this dual footballing identity. He played for France's youth teams before committing to Morocco, adding resonance to this fixture. France, the 2018 champions, are seasoned contenders, while Morocco arrives with the confidence of a team that has consistently defied expectations, notably becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2022.

Boston provides a unique backdrop for this rematch, following France's 2-0 victory in Qatar. While the Moroccan community is less visible than in French cities, it has established roots in the metropolitan area. For many Moroccan fans in Boston, the match won't create division. "Some live in the same building and French and Moroccans will watch the game together and shake hands at the end," said taxi driver Mohammed Saadi. "Soccer is a family thing and France v Morocco will be no different. Quite the opposite, even."

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Some live in the same building and French and Moroccans will watch the game together and shake hands at the end. There is no tension here. Soccer is a family thing and France v Morocco will be no different. Quite the opposite, even.