Portugal fans were left in tears after the defeat against Morocco. Morocco created history as they marched into the FIFA Qatar World Cup semi-finals.
First time in the history of the world cup, an African nation advanced to the final four. Morocco had previously defeated Spain in the pre-quarters. The ball possession was only 26 % for Morocco in the match against Portugal. But they managed to organize speedy counterattacks. Morocco had 7 shots solely from counterattacks.
Portuguese fans will remember the name Youssef En Nesyri for years as his beautiful header goal destroyed their hopes. Nesyri scored a header goal in the 42nd minute of the game. Morocco managed to defend against the attacks led by Bruno Fernandes and Jõao Felix.
While the Portuguese managed to do organized attacks at the Moroccan front, Morocco's victory was based on their solid defense and rapid counterattacks. Cristiano Ronaldo was not included in the starting 11. The 4-3-3 formation of Portugal couldn't perform well in the first half. The hat trick goal scorer in pre-quarter Gonzalo Ramos was unable to find a goal as the Moroccan team destroyed every move by the Europeans.
Cristiano Ronaldo was introduced in the 50th minute of the game. But Ronaldo also failed to find a goal for his side. Morocco has managed to defend properly against Portuguese set pieces and continuous attacks. The second half was a one-sided play as Portugal managed to do countless attacks. But they failed to convert them into goals.
During the 2nd minute of extra time, Morocco were reduced to 10 men as they got a red card. But Morocco had already sealed the match. Moroccan goalkeeper Bono did a great job by saving many shots including the one from Cristiano Ronaldo. Excellent team play was showcased by Morocco yesterday. Cristiano Ronaldo already announced that Qatar would be his last world cup.
The Portuguese superstar is currently 37. Morocco has emerged as a great team in this world cup and they have already defeated top teams like Spain and Portugal. Their beautiful one-touch game and solid defense line would make the semi-final a very interesting treat. Morocco will be facing the defending champions for making it to the finals.
The French are in super form despite the injury of key players like Paul Pogba and Karim Benzema. The French attack led by Kylian Mbappe and Antoinne Greizemann along with Oliver Giroud will make it a tough match for Morocco. Argentina will be facing the previous runner ups Croatia in the first semi-final. The positive note from this world cup for Portugal is the great performance of young players like Bernado silva, Bruno Fernandez, Jõao Felix and Gonzalo Ramos. A team that once solely relied on the shoulders of Cristiano has now evolved into a great team. But Cristiano Ronaldo failed to add a world cup trophy to his collection.
Morocco will face France on Thursday morning at 12:30 am. The final is scheduled for the 18th at Lusail stadium.
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