By Pewu Y. Sumo
CASABLANCA, MOROCCO – For decades, the name “George Weah” has served as the universal passport for any Liberian traveling abroad. But in the bustling streets of Casablanca, there is a new king of conversation, and his name is William Jebor.
Acclaimed Liberian sports journalist T. Kla Wesley, currently on assignment in Morocco, shared a surprising encounter that highlights the lasting impact the Liberian striker left during his stint with African giants, Wydad AC.
A Surprising Encounter
While ordering food in the city, Wesley experienced a rare shift in the typical Liberian narrative.
“I’m currently in Casablanca, and for the first time, when I told someone I’m Liberian, the first name he mentioned was ‘Jebor,’” Wesley reported. “That really caught me off guard.”
For Wesley, and most Liberians in the sports world, the standard reaction to their nationality is an immediate reference to the legendary Ballon d’Or winner and former President, George Oppong Weah. However, the Moroccan fan didn’t just stop at the name; he recreated the striker’s iconic goal celebration on the spot.
The “Ironman” Legacy
The reaction from the local fan is a testament to Jebor’s prolific tenure with Wydad Casablanca. Known affectionately as “Ironman,” Jebor became a cult hero in Morocco during the 2016-2017 season, netting 19 goals, eventually finishing as the league’s top scorer and helping lead the club to a Botola Pro league title. He was also part of the squad that propelled Wydad to the CAF Champions League title in 2017.
Jebor earned over 26 caps and scored 13 goals for Liberia, often carrying the offensive load in major qualifiers. He holds the rare distinction of being the only Liberian to score multiple hat-tricks for the senior national team (notably against Guinea-Bissau and Djibouti).
His impact on Moroccan football was so profound that even years after his departure, his name carries as much—if not more—weight than the greatest African player of all time in certain Moroccan circles.
Jebor currently ply his trade with Al Hudod FC in the Iraqi Second Division, having had a short stint with Iraqi giants Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya in early 2025.
A “Bigger” Honor
The encounter ended on a lighthearted note, reflecting the warmth Jebor’s legacy has afforded Liberians visiting the city.
“I laughed and told him to make my burger bigger,” Wesley joked, noting the immediate bond formed through the shared love of the game and Jebor’s contributions to Moroccan football.
As Liberia continues to produce footballing talent, Jebor’s status in Casablanca serves as a reminder that while Weah opened the doors to the world, players like Jebor are busy building their own legendary rooms within it.
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