"This qualification of the Atlas Lions to the semi-finals of the World Cup (Qatar-2022) is historic. It is an extraordinary achievement for Africa and a pride of all Africans," said the Gabonese minister in a statement to MAP.

He recalled that other African teams had reached the quarterfinals of a World Cup, adding that Morocco manages now to allow a whole continent to cross a new level.

"Morocco shows that Africa has world-class players who can eliminate Portugal of Cristiano Ronaldo, Spain of Pedri and Gavi and Belgium of Hazard and De Bruyne and match Croatia, runner-up of the world championship, of Modric. All this while conceding only one goal", he said.

In addition, the Gabonese minister highlighted the efforts of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and President Ali Bongo Ondimba who constantly work for a multiform South-South cooperation of reference and active solidarity.

"HM King Mohammed VI and President Ali Bongo Ondimba are world leaders who carry the ideals of Africa as far as possible and make the voice of the Continent heard in international forums," he said.

The Sovereign and President Ali Bongo have always highlighted the skills and capabilities of an Africa that "wins", without complex, added Nguema.