Lorenz Köhler to Elbotola: “The Atmosphere in Rabat Was Better Than Bayern vs Arsenal at the Emirates”

South African journalist Lorenz Köhler praised the organization and atmosphere surrounding the CAF Champions League final in Rabat between AS FAR and Mamelodi Sundowns, describing his experience in Morocco as “excellent” and affirming that the Kingdom has become “like a second home” to him because of his repeated visits to Rabat.

In an exclusive statement to Elbotola, Köhler said: “My experience covering the CAF Champions League final in Morocco was obviously excellent. It wasn’t like I was walking into a foreign country because it’s a country I’ve been to many times. I’ve been to Rabat many times, so it feels like home now when you arrive.”

He added: “You know where to go, what to do for transport, where to eat and things like that. So it’s becoming a feeling like a second home to me. The people are lovely and I get treated with respect from hotel staff, people in shopping centers, and even people on the side of the road if I ask them for help.”

Köhler also praised the level of organization during the final, despite it not reaching the same media attention as the Africa Cup of Nations.

“Obviously it wasn’t as big as the AFCON in terms of the media buzz and things like that, but it was still at a very high professional level,” he stated.

The South African journalist then revealed how quickly his accreditation issue was solved by CAF officials.

“I forgot to apply for accreditation, for example, and one of the CAF media officers said: ‘We’ll make a plan for you.’ They told me to apply and give my details, and within a few hours I walked into the accreditation center and got my accreditation in less than 15 minutes. Simple, easy, no stress.”

Köhler further highlighted the excellent internet connection at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, comparing it to several stadiums across the African continent where journalists struggle to work during sold-out matches.

“In many stadiums around Africa, you won’t be able to get Wi-Fi. I was at Esperance against Sundowns in Radès and I could hardly post anything. Even in some games in South Africa you won’t get connection when the stadium is sold out. But in Rabat, it was like I was sitting in my bedroom with my Wi-Fi next to me. That’s how good the connection was.”

The journalist also expressed his admiration for Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, describing it as one of the best stadiums he has experienced.

“Prince Moulay Abdellah is a world-class stadium and it always leaves me breathless every time I walk in and see it. It’s like being in a movie or a dream,” he said.

Köhler continued: “I covered a Champions League game between Bayern Munich and Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, and the atmosphere doesn’t come close to this.”

Speaking about the supporters, Köhler praised AS FAR fans for the atmosphere they created during the final.

“This was my first away Champions League final and it was really special. The AS FAR fans, for all the history and reputation, really lived up to it and made it an incredibly hostile atmosphere for Sundowns to push their team forward.”

He concluded by praising Moroccan football culture and the support local clubs receive across the country.

“It’s very heartening to see how much local football is supported, from the Champions League to the Confederation Cup to the Botola Pro and even women’s football. Even though Morocco has many international stars playing in Europe, the locals still support football here. It’s honestly very beautiful,” he concluded.

Köhler finally called on the rest of the continent to support local football in the same way.

“I wish the rest of Africa can take some notes from Morocco, South Africa and Tunisia and support their local teams, because that’s the only way we’re going to grow football on the continent.”