Morocco defeats Portugal to reach the World Cup semi-finals
Morocco became the first ever African nation to reach the semi-finals on Saturday thanks to a stunning headed goal from Youssef En-Nesyri as they extended their dream run at the World Cup with a 1-0 victory over Portugal.
To meet a Yahya Attiat-Allah cross in the 42nd minute, En-Nesyri leaped above the Portugal defenders. He got just enough of his head on the ball to tip it past goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who misunderstood the ball’s path and collided with his own defender.
While Morocco was scoring, Portugal struggled to get past their defence, with Bruno Fernandes coming the closest with a shot off the crossbar.
Six minutes after the half, Cristiano Ronaldo came off the bench but was unable to save his team from losing. Morocco ended up winning and will play either England or France in the semifinals later on Saturday.
Walid Cheddira of Morocco was dismissed after earning two yellow cards in short succession during extra time, which means he will not play in the semifinals.
