After defeating Portugal 1-0 on Saturday, Morocco made history by becoming the first African country to advance to the World Cup semifinals.
Youssef En-header Nesyri’s in the 43rd minute gave Walid Regragui’s team the lead despite the fact that he had no right to do so.
To direct Yahia Attiyat Allah’s cross home, the Sevilla forward sprang high into the air, above Ruben Dias and goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
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At this year’s competition, Morocco has only given up one goal, an own goal against Canada in their last group match.
The same assault that Portugal manager Fernando Santos used to defeat Switzerland by six goals in the round of 16 was lined up for this match.
Because of his hat-trick on Tuesday, Goncalo Ramos was chosen ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ramos had little effect on the game, and early in the second half, Santos turned to Ronaldo.
Portugal’s strongest danger on goal was Joao Felix, who had a header saved by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou in the opening period and another attempt deflected wide.
A ridiculous attempt at curling was spectacularly flipped over in the second half.
Portugal turned to their wide range of offensive options as pressure mounted on Morocco’s small backline. Rafael Leao and Ricardo Horta entered the game as Vitinha attempted to strengthen the midfield.
It wasn’t enough to defeat a steadfast Morocco. Jon Champion and Ally McCoist, a commentary team on ITV, talked about the pain that African countries that have advanced to this point have experienced.
Ghana in 2010, Senegal in 2002, and Cameroon in 1990. All of them fell short of shattering the glass ceiling. McCoist claimed that this Moroccan team felt unique. He captured it exactly.
On Wednesday, Morocco will now play either France or England. One of the greatest underdog stories in football history may emerge from this.