Morocco Triumphs at the World English Billiards Championship in Marrakech
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the Moroccan national team has once again ascended to the pinnacle of English billiards, commonly known as "blackball," clinching the World Team Championship title on September 26 in Marrakech. This victory marks a significant milestone for Morocco, as it comes twelve years after their first world championship win. The event, which took place from September 17 to 27, was organized by the Ultimate Pool Association (UPA) and the International Eightball Pool Federation (IEPF), attracting nearly 300 players from around twenty countries competing in various categories.
Despite a rocky start in the group stages, where the Moroccan team finished fifth with 11 wins and 5 losses, they showcased resilience and tenacity during the knockout rounds. Led by their captain Yasser Amrani, the team faced a series of rematches against opponents who had previously defeated them, which only fueled their determination. In the playoffs, they avenged an earlier loss to Ireland with a decisive 11-4 victory, followed by a hard-fought 11-7 win against Wales in the semifinals, securing a spot in the final against Northern Ireland.
A Hard-Fought Victory
The championship final was a thrilling contest, characterized by intense competition and fluctuating momentum. Ultimately, Morocco emerged victorious with an 11-9 scoreline, claiming their second world title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, a feat that underscores the rising prominence of Moroccan billiards on the international stage. This victory not only adds to their legacy, but it also serves as a testament to the growth and development of the sport within the country.
A standout player of this championship was Ameur Riad, who was part of the team during their first win in 2014. Reflecting on the experience, Riad noted the unique pressure of competing at home, stating, "We were playing in our own country, in front of our supporters, so there was even more pressure than in 2014." However, this pressure did not hinder the team’s performance; instead, it reinforced their camaraderie and collective spirit, which had been cultivated through years of competing together in national tournaments.
Riad emphasized the importance of team cohesion, saying, "The atmosphere within the national team was fantastic; we all know each other well, having competed against each other in many national tournaments. This familiarity fostered a good harmony and strong group cohesion." This unity proved invaluable throughout the competition, allowing them to face challenges head-on with confidence.
Moreover, Morocco's success at this tournament could have been even greater, as Abderrahmane Ech-Chorfy reached the finals of the individual event. His historic victory over the former champion Giuseppe D’Imperio in a nail-biting semifinal, culminating in a score of 10-9, highlighted the depth of talent within the Moroccan ranks.
This championship not only adds a new chapter to Morocco's sporting history but also showcases the potential for continued success in billiards on the global stage.
As reported by maroc-hebdo.com.
