Morocco’s joyous World Cup journey has been unexpected – but it’s no fluke | Marie Le Conte

Those of us with ties to the country know football is embedded in its DNA. Whatever happens, tonight's semi-final with France will be a proud moment

This isn't the first time Morocco has made history. Forty-two years ago, Morocco also captured the attention of the world when it became the first Arab and African country to compete in the Eurovision song contest. In the end, it came second to last, and decided never to compete again.

Since then, many more Moroccan hearts and egos have been bruised and broken by international football tournaments. The national team have qualified for only five World Cups out of 11 after that Eurovision adventure - and, at their best, has only ever managed to reach the round of 16. Morocco bid to host the World Cup in 1994, 1998, 2006, 2010 and 2026, and never won. Still, it never gave up hope; football is in the country's DNA.

Marie Le Conte is a French journalist living in London