As the excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, the match between Morocco and Haiti stands out not only for its competitive edge but also for its personal significance to Haitian forward Duckens Nazon. At 32 years old, Nazon, who currently plays for Esteghlal in Iran, will be participating in his first World Cup alongside his teammates, the Haitians, marking a historical moment for the Caribbean nation that has not qualified for the tournament since 1974. On paper, the Moroccan team, known as the Lions of the Atlas, is favored to win against the Haitian squad, the Grenadiers, but for Nazon, this match transcends mere competition.
Nazon's connection to Morocco is deeply rooted in his personal life. In a recent interview with 360 Sport, he expressed his feelings about the upcoming game, highlighting the unique circumstances surrounding it. "The match against Morocco will be special for me. My wife is Moroccan, my children are half-Moroccan, and I naturally want to make a good impression," he stated. Residing in Morocco with his family, Nazon has experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Moroccan people, saying, "We live in Morocco, and my children hold this country dear to their hearts. Al Hamdoulilah, we have always been very well received here."
Moreover, Nazon’s life in France, particularly in the Paris region, has also left an imprint on him as he grew up alongside many Moroccan friends. He fondly recalls playing with several Moroccan players throughout his career, including Fouad Chafik, Rachid Alioui, Romain Saïss, and Munir El Haddadi. "Two of my best friends are Moroccan. My relationships with them have always been excellent," he added. Over the years, Nazon has become a symbol of modern Haitian football, earning tremendous popularity in his home country due to his global journey across eight different countries in his football career.
While the emotional stakes are high, Nazon also holds a profound respect for the Moroccan national team and its achievements. He believes that Morocco serves as a model for other African nations in terms of football development. "I think it is an example for all African countries. Morocco's semi-final appearance in the World Cup is not a coincidence but the result of hard work," he remarked, emphasizing the significant strides the team has made on the international stage. As the match approaches, anticipation grows not just for the outcome but for the personal narratives that intertwine within it, making it a unique family affair for Duckens Nazon.
As reported by afrik-foot.com.
