Romain Saiss, the Moroccan defender, has been injured in the quarterfinal match against Portugal. With the experienced defender on the bench, the African nation will have a tough time defending against Cristiano Ronaldo and Goncalo Ramos.
Morocco fans on social media are wondering whether this will be an advantage for Portugal. Check out some of the reactions right here:
Saiss’ injury adds to a growing list of Morocco defenders
who the sidelined. He will join West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd on the North
African country’s injury list. The 32-year-old began the game with a strap
around his leg from an injury he got in their Round 16 win against Spain.
Also Read | Cristiano Ronaldo in tears, trolled on social media as Morocco beat Portugal: See pic, reactions
However, after initially picking up the injury he then went
back onto the pitch to continue and help see out a clean sheet against Fernando Santos’ side. Morocco were leading the 2016 European champions Portugal after a
goal from Youssef En-Nesyri. The score came as En-Nesyri managed to beat
goalkeeper Diogo Costa to the ball from Yahia Attiyatt’s looping cross.
Also Read | 10-men Morocco beat Portugal, create history as first African nation to qualify for FIFA World Cup semis
Portugal manager Fernando Santos brought on Cristiano
Ronaldo after leaving him on the bench once again. However, the former
Manchester United ace was unable to create any meaningful opportunities to help
his nation equalize.
Also Read | ‘Where is Ronaldo’ trends on social media as Morocco hold back Portugal
Morocco created history by defeating Portugal 1-0 in their
quarterfinal match. With this victory, Morocco became the first African and
Arab team to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo walked straight off the field on his own at the final whistle and was in tears as he went down the tunnel.
Also Read | 2022 FIFA World Cup Argentina vs Croatia semifinal: 5 things to watch out for
Morocco fans and supporters burst into cheers and screams as their team made history. Some with teary eyes are embracing in minute-long hugs. On the other side, Portugal supporters stood quiet, stunned at the upset.