Morocco continues their dream run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and in their latest feat, eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal from the quarterfinals, via 1-0 scoreline this Saturday at the Al Thumama Stadium, to become the first team from Africa to reach the semifinal of the quadrennial event.
Coming from a penalty shootout win over Spain, ‘The Atlas Lions’ were up on their confidence, against a Portuguese side that was already low on firepower, with Cristiano Ronaldo starting on the bench.
Sofiane Boufal and Azzedine Ounahi were the playmakers for Morocco throughout the two halves, but the sole strike of the night came just before the break, courtesy of a stunning header from Youssouf En-Nesyri.
At the 42-minute mark, Yahia Attiyat Allah swerved in a cross, dragging Portugal keeper Costa out, who was beaten on air by En-Nesyri with a sinking header that found the back of the net.
The rest of the match saw impenetrable defending from Morocco, despite Ronaldo coming off the bench six minutes into the second half. ‘The Navigators’ failed to break into the scoreboard, crashing out of the tournament.
Final Score: Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
Goals:
MAR – Youssouf En-Nesyri – 42nd min
