Portugal’s chances of beating Morocco in the World Cup semifinals were dashed as Morocco became the first country from Africa to achieve it.
The winning goal was scored in the first half by the striker Youssef En-Nesyri, who caused chaos at Al Thumama Stadium by rising highest to beat goalkeeper Diogo Costa to the ball and head in.
The majority of the stadium was filled with the north African team’s fans, who joyfully celebrated their continent’s historic moment on the world stage.
Ronaldo came off the bench in the 50th minute to tie the men’s record most appearances in international games with 196, but he was unable to get his team back into the game.
Only a few minutes later, Bruno Fernandes, the captain of Portugal, came agonizingly close to tying the score, but his outstanding individual effort hit the crossbar.
Due to injuries, Morocco sat back for the entirety of the second half, and the closest they got to a goal was when Yassine Bounou expertly tipped over Joao Felix’s shot.
Portugal’s dreams of making the last four were shattered when Moroccan forward Walid Cheddira received a second yellow card in the eight minutes of extra time.
The winner of the match between England and France will now play Morocco.
