Moroccan Dutch on the World Cup Match: 'As if You Have to Choose Between Your Children'

As the World Cup match between Morocco and the Netherlands approaches, many Moroccan Dutch individuals find themselves in an emotionally charged dilemma, often feeling compelled to choose between supporting their country of origin and their country of residence.

This internal conflict is frequently articulated as a difficult choice, with one individual describing it as "like having to choose between your children." The question of allegiance, "Who are you for?" is a recurring one, sometimes feeling like an interrogation of their identity. For some, like Youssef Damnati, a 45-year-old hairdresser in Amsterdam, the situation is particularly poignant. Having moved to the Netherlands over twenty years ago, he holds affection for both nations.

"I am Moroccan, I was born in Morocco and I love my country. But I also love the Netherlands, so I am happy either way," Damnati stated. He believes the Netherlands deserves to be world champions, recalling his deep disappointment when they lost the 2010 final to Spain. However, he expressed that facing the Netherlands so early in the tournament was painful: "I really didn't want to meet the Netherlands, honestly. I wanted it in the final or the semi-final. This is too soon."

Saber Benjah, a 29-year-old co-founder of a Moroccan art platform in Utrecht, shared his perspective on navigating this dual identity. "I've learned: you are both," he said, reflecting on the lifelong question of whether one is Moroccan or Dutch. He admits to being a "part-time football fan," only watching during major tournaments like the World Cup and Africa Cup. He plans to watch the match with friends, setting his alarm to wake up before dawn, likening the experience to Ramadan rituals.

The article highlights the spectrum of feelings, from those who are certain of their choice to others who are undecided. It also touches upon the underlying anxieties regarding potential unrest and the shared hope for solidarity and unity, regardless of the match's outcome.

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Voor wie ben je, Marokko of Nederland? Die krijg ik al mijn hele leven en soms voelt die als: ben je nou Marokaan of Nederlander?