"I was very happy to play in a team with a lot of good players, and I think I've made a good choice, Diop said after Friday's match."
"They explained their vision to me, and I was taken in with open arms by a cheerful group of players with a great atmosphere in the camp, he said."
"The North Africans have a track record of assiduously courting players with links to the country who they believe can improve their national team."
"Senegal also draw heavily on their diaspora in France, and the 28-man squad which won the Cup of Nations in Morocco in January featured 12 French-born players."
Issa Diop made his international debut for Morocco shortly after receiving FIFA clearance to switch nationality from France. The Fulham defender, whose parents are from Senegal and Morocco, had previously declined offers from both countries while hoping for a call-up from France. With no opportunity from the French national team, he opted to represent Morocco, aiming for a chance at the World Cup. Diop expressed satisfaction with his decision and praised the welcoming atmosphere within the Moroccan team, highlighting the ongoing competition for player loyalty between Morocco and Senegal.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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