The Qatar World Cup has continued to deliver its upsets and surprises, as the Atlas Lions roared and knocked out Portugal to advance to the semifinals for the first time ever.
Cristiano Ronaldo was left on the bench for a second successive game and many wondered if the Portuguese coach had made a mistake as they took on Morocco for a place in the last four.
The game’s turning point occurred in the 42nd minute when Sevilla striker En-Nesyri sprang wonderfully to beat Diogo Costa to a cross from the left by Attiyat-Allah, giving Morocco the lead at the third attempt with a headed goal.
Portugal held the majority of possession after 50 minutes but had nothing to show for it in front of the goal, this continued into the second half.
The North Africans did just about enough to stop Ronaldo and his teammates from scoring when the Portuguese coach turned to his bench and introduced the five-time Ballon d’Or winner into the game.
A thrilling game came to a tense conclusion when Morocco were reduced to 10 men in added time after the substitute Waldo Cheddira received a second caution for a clumsy challenge on Jao Felix.
Despite numerous injuries to their key players, the Atlas Lions have continued to deliver resoundingly, having already defeated Spain, Belgium, and now Portugal.
They will now wait to find out their next opponent in the semifinal between England and France who will lock horns tonight.
Considering that Ronaldo seems to be nearing his international football retirement, this could be his final World Cup. What was meant to be one of the greatest players in the past 20 years’ final dance ended in sobs.
