DOHA: Brave Morocco continued their dream run in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 as they downed Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal 1-0 to book a spot in the semi-finals for the first time in their history.
Morocco added Portugal to their list of scalped European nations as Youssef En-Nesyri’s first-half goal sealed a tense 1-0 victory in their first-ever world cup quarter.
Following their astounding victory, Morocco became the first African nation and Arab team to progress into the semi-finals of the mega event.
En-Nesyri converted Morocco’s strong comeback after the break into a match-winning goal as he executed the header off Yahia Attiyat Allah El Idrissi’s assist in the 42nd minute.
Portugal tried to pile pressure on Morocco after the break but the injury-hit side managed to hold on despite missing three of their four top defenders and going down to 10 men in extra time.
Fernando Santos then sent in five-time Ballon D’Or winner Ronaldo in the early phase of the second half but he too, could not rescue his side from the world cup exit.
Instead, it was another historic day for Morocco, having previously upset Belgium and Spain, on penalties.
Walid Regragui’s side will now face England or holders France in the semi-finals at Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday.
The dark horses of this world cup can back themselves for another astounding triumph in the ongoing mega event as they have conceded only once in five matches.
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