In another huge upset, Morocco are through to the Semi Finals of the World Cup! Ronaldo and Portugal are eliminated and the Portuguese super star might bid farewell to World Cups forever.
| Y. En Nesyri 42′ |
Location: Al-Thumama Stadium, Al-Thumama
Referee: Facundo Tello, Argentina
Morocco
Manager: W. Regragui
Subs: A. Dari 57′, W. Cheddira 65′, B. Benoun 65′, Z. Aboukhlal 82′, Y. Jabrane 82′
Portugal
Manager: Fernando Santos
Subs: J. Cancelo 51′, C. Ronaldo 51′, R. Leao 69′, Vitinha 69′, R. Horta 79′
The first half was relatively even, with Portugal controlling possession, however Morocco being more dangerous. This culminated in En-Nesyri’s goal in the 42nd minute. Left back Attiyat Allah delivered a cross from the left, only for Portuguese GK, Diogo Costa to get beaten in the air by Sevilla’s striker. The two teams went into the break with the advantage on the African team’s side.
Portugal went forward and attacked in the second half, however Morocco proved to be a very disciplined team yet again and Portugal barely managed to create chances. Felix, Ronaldo(who was a sub yet again) and Pepe came the closest to scoring, but it wasn’t meant to be for them. Morocco’s GK, Bono had another amazing game!
Morocco are in the Semi Finals of the World Cup! It’s the first time in the history of the tournament when an African team reaches the top 4. Portugal are eliminated in what will most probably be, Cristiano Ronaldo’s last big tournament.