Currently hosting the U17 Women's World Cup, Morocco turned to Moroccan-Dutch artist Inez to give voice to the tournament's official anthem with her new song «Marhba Bik (Welcome)». The 27-year-old singer performed it live during the opening show in Rabat on Friday, describing the experience as a surreal milestone in her career. Speaking to Dutch magazine LINDA.meiden, Inez said the opportunity came just two weeks before the event. «Everything still feels surreal. Friday's performance was unlike anything I've ever experienced», she said. The entire show came together in record time, with more than 45 dancers flown in from around the world and a styling team assembling costumes in just a few days, she said. Inez collaborated with Moroccan singer Rym, with whom she co-wrote and recorded the anthem in less than 48 hours. «I wrote my part in two hours, and Rym recorded hers the next day, it was last-minute, but it worked out perfectly», she recalled. When the lights dimmed and the crowd roared, nerves turned to pride. «The moment Rym and I saw each other on the field and held hands, I got goosebumps. It was so special to do this in Morocco for the Women's World Cup. Everything exuded women empowerment», Inez said. Born in the Netherlands, Inez Atili, known simply as Inez, discovered her passion for music at just 12 years old. Her journey to fame began when she shared her first song, «Menak Wla Meni», on Instagram. The video quickly went viral, leading her to release it officially in 2019 as her debut single.
