Elias Akhomach Shines in Europa Conference League and Voices Support for Morocco
Moroccan forward Elias Akhomach has emerged as a standout player for Rayo Vallecano, contributing significantly to the team's success in the first leg of the Europa Conference League quarter-finals against AEK Athens. In a commanding performance, Akhomach not only scored a goal but also provided an assist, helping his team secure a decisive 3-0 victory. Following the match, the young talent took a firm stance against the recent rise of Islamophobic chants in Spanish football venues, particularly the troubling refrain, “Whoever doesn’t jump is a Muslim.” Such chants have unfortunately echoed during various matches, including a recent friendly between Spain and Egypt, as well as during Atlético Madrid's Champions League face-off against Barcelona.
In an interview on the popular Spanish sports show *El Larguero*, Akhomach addressed the issue of offensive chants head-on, downplaying their impact on him personally. He expressed, “People make a big deal out of the offensive chants, but it doesn’t matter to me and it doesn’t affect me.” He further emphasized his resilience by stating that if he were to face such abuse directly, he would simply respond with laughter and well wishes. Nonetheless, he made it clear that while he does not let the controversy distract him, he remains focused on his performance and the team's goals.
Shifting the conversation back to sporting matters, Akhomach urged his teammates at Rayo Vallecano to maintain their concentration as they prepare for the second leg of the tie. “The first leg finished 3-0, but in Greece, we start from zero; we have to go there to win,” he cautioned, underscoring the importance of remaining vigilant against complacency.
In a remarkable display of national pride, Akhomach also articulated his hope for Morocco to host the final of the 2030 World Cup. Despite being born in Spain, he passionately declared, “In Morocco, in my country, always,” highlighting his commitment to his roots and aspirations for his homeland’s prominence on the world stage.
As reported by goal.com.
