Morocco became the first African nation to reach the World Cup semifinals after beating Portugal 1-0 in Qatar 2022 World Cup. It is a remarkable achievement for the team and for the country, and it will no doubt be celebrated by many back home.
The victory was hard-earned, and it was a tense and close game throughout. But in the end, Morocco held on to their lead and earned their place in history. This is a momentous occasion not just for Moroccan football, but for African football as a whole.
Walid Regragui’s side took the lead in the 43rd minute thanks to a Youssef En-Nesyri header he quite frankly had no business scoring.
The Sevilla striker rose high into the air, above Ruben Dias and goalkeeper Diogo Costa, to head home Yahia Attiyat Allah’s cross.
Morocco have conceded just one goal at this year’s tournament, an own goal against Canada in their final group game.
Portugal boss Fernando Santos lined up with the same attack that put six past Switzerland in the last 16.
That meant Goncalo Ramos, who scored a hat-trick on Tuesday, was given the nod ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ramos had little impact on the contest, which saw Santos turn to Ronaldo early in the second half.
Joao Felix was Portugal’s biggest goal threat, having a header saved by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou in the first half and another effort deflected wide.
In the second half, an outrageous curling effort was tipped over spectacularly.
The pressure continued to build on Morocco’s compact backline as Portugal turned to their plethora of attacking options. On came Rafael Leao and Ricardo Horta, while Vitinha tried to shore up the midfield.
Ronaldo came close to equalising in added time, but Bono once again stood firm. Later on, Walid Cheddira was sent off for Morocco after receiving a second booking.
It wasn’t enough to bring a resolute Morocco down. On ITV, commentary duo Jon Champion and Ally McCoist discussed the heartache African nations who’ve reached this stage felt.
Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002 and Ghana in 2010. All failed to break through the glass ceiling. McCoist said this Morocco team feels different. He summed it up perfectly.
Morocco will now face one of France or England on Wednesday. This could end up being one of the biggest underdog stories in football history.