Morocco claimed the Trohpée International Mohamemd VI de Polo for the second time – the first was in 2023 and against the same contender, Egypt. Following this remarkable achievement, Argentinian-born Mario Gómez, who played for Morocco, spoke about his feelings about playing and winning the tournament and his expectations for the near future.

This is the second final Morocco played against Egypt. What have changed since the one in 2023?

I think Egypt played a remarkable game, they are very tough contenders, and the final was very tough. Segundo Condesse played very well, he knows his team mates very well, and he does know how to play with them. We were two goals behind and it seemed difficult to bounce back. But we were confident enough – we started to play faster, open, and that helped a lot. And the deal was sealed in the last chukka, when El Hanafi produced a goal after a great run, that secured us the trophy.

What was the first thing that came to you mind when Morocco claimed the second title?

The guys played really well, they never gave up. Even when they lost the ball, the ran to the other side to pick it back. They are incredible, they did a great job.

You are already local. How is to play for Morocco in Morocco?

Well, one’s very well treated in Morocco, they always make you feel at home. I’ve been playing in Morocco for several years, and it’s a pleasure. I love playing here, it’s always a fabulous feeling.

As you said, you’ve been playing this tournament for many years, but this time there were much more social activities. How did you feel about them?

Yes, there were great, big dinners; we went to a big restaurant and I had one of the better meals of my life, it was endless! It was incredible. I brought my children and they had a very good time. I love this place, it’s worth to come, everything is always tidy, neat, you’re sorrounded by a great entourage. Rabat is a beautiful city as well as La Palmeraie. They are like paradise.

What’s coming up for you in the near future?

I’m going to Sotogrande to play with Danny’s Polo; I will spend a whole month there. Then, I will go to Madrid, to play the playoffs for the European Championship with Almasanta, and back to Sotogrande in August, to play with La Capilla. And if we are lucky to qualify, the European Championship, with Almasanta, in September.