Youssef En-Nesyri’s first-half header proved the difference as Morocco became the first-ever African side to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup thanks to a stunning 1-0 victory over Portugal at Al Thumama Stadium, Qatar.
The Sevilla forward sent the large contingent of Morocco fans crazy with a 42nd-minute headed effort that was enough to send Cristiano Ronaldo and co home.
Walid Regragui’s history-makers will meet the winner of France and England in the semi-final on Wednesday.
The first chance fell Portugal’s way with Joao Felix’s deflected effort drifting agonisingly wide with goalkeeper Bono well beaten.
Having gone close twice earlier in the half, En-Nesyri finally broke the deadlock three minutes before half-time. It was a magical moment for Morocco, but one to forget for Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa who was caught in no-man’s land as he got nowhere close to Yahih Attiyat Allah’s cross and En-Nesyri took full advantage, heading home quite majestically to send the African fans wild.
