Morocco ran out the champions of the Mohammed VI International Polo Trophy, after defeating the United States 9-5, in the fina that took place at the Roya Guard Polo Club, in Rabat, Morocco. The local team dominated the match, and demonstrated the impressive growth of the sport in Morocco.
Morocco earned a quick 3-1 lead in the first chukka, through a solid and dynamic play. They extended their advantage in the second chukka (5-2) and by the third chukka they had a commanding 8-3 lead. Although the Americans struggled to get closer in the score, the Moroccans were clever enough to maintain their difference and sealed a historic victory in their country.
Morocco played a remarkable tournament. In the league stage, they beat Hungary and Portugal, while United States were one of the favourites.
In the meantime, the third place went to Portugal, who defeated France.
Morocco’s Sidi Mohammed Al Mohammadi remarked the importance of this victory, as well as the competitive level demonstrated by the two teams. In addition, he said that the match was a symbol of the cultural and sports bond between Morocco and United Stated.
But beyond the result, the tournament confirmed once again the steady growth of polo in Morocco. Organised under the patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, and with international teams such as Saudi Arabia, Portugal, France, Hungary and United States, in participation, the contest is already established as one of the most important in Africa and the Middle East.
International tournaments represent a crucial encouragement for the development of polo in Morocco, a country that is looking to establish as a new reference of polo worldwide, combining infraestructure, institutional support and a big investment to form players and horses. In a sport mostly dominated by Argentina, United States or England, Morocco’s growth is a reflexion of the global expansion of polo on an international level.
Through packed grandsstands, authorities in attendace and a very professional organisation, theMohammed VI International Polo Trophy not only strenghthens the international calendar of the sport, but also projects Marruecos as a strategic destination for the future of polo in the area.
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