We deserve this 1,000%, says jubilant Sofyan Amrabat after Morocco storm into World Cup semi-finals

Two different worlds have never closed ranks like this before. The victory of Morocco over Portugal in the Qatar World Cup tournament on Friday unleashed festivities with total abandon in both Africa and the Arab world.

All differences were forgotten as fans broke out into a feverish frenzy of celebrations on Friday. Car horns were blaring incessantly, firecrackers started bursting and people spilled out into the streets waving the Moroccan flag.

The merrymaking had broken out in Europe too, from London to Paris to Barcelona, it was all over the place.

It was a rare moment of solidarity hitherto unthinkable. Morocco’s joy as it broke Portugal’s back was also Africa’s and the Arabs’ joy.

It was unbelievable as striker Youssef En-Nesyri scored the historic goal for Morocco after a towering header, storming his way into the record books and becoming a household name among millions.

The happiness had hit the stratosphere.

Midfielder Sofyan Amrabat said Morocco was living a "dream" after progressing to the World Cup semifinals.

"It's really unbelievable, I'm so proud. It's like a dream – unbelievable we're in the semifinal," the 26-year-old Fiorentina player was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.

"We deserve this, 1000%. How we fight, how we play, with our heart for our country for the people – it's unbelievable,” he said, according to Indo-Asian News Service.

"Our spirit, we have injuries, three defenders came in and how they defend, big respect," Amrabat said. "Respect everyone, the coach, the team, the staff. It was like we played at home, thank you for all the people."

There are reports that Ambrabat may move to a new club next month after his splendid performance in the World Cup. These are yet to be confirmed.