Morocco look to defy the odds again when they face Portugal in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals. This is the third meeting between the two nations, with both previous encounters at the World Cup. The North Africans won 3-1 in 1986, while the Portuguese were 1-0 winners in the group stage four years ago.
Few would have expected Morocco to get to this stage, but they are one of four teams still unbeaten in the tournament. The Atlas Lions topped a group containing Croatia and Belgium before beating Spain on penalties after holding them to a 0-0 draw in the last 16. Defensively, Morocco have been outstanding. So far, they have conceded just one goal in four matches – an own goal against Canada. They must remain strong at the back to keep out Portugal’s wealth of attacking talent, with goalkeeper Bono key – he will make his 50th appearance in this one.
Portugal boss Fernando Santos shocked many by leaving Cristiano Ronaldo out of their starting line-up in the Round of 16. However, it proved a masterstroke, as Ronaldo’s replacement Goncalo Ramos netted a hat-trick in a 6-1 victory. The 21-year-old should keep his place in the 11 for this one – check out his odds in our Anytime Goal Scorer market. Bruno Fernandes has also played a crucial part in the campaign, netting two goals and providing three assists in three appearances.
Morocco have never reached the World Cup semi-finals. Can they make history with a win in Doha? Or will Portugal qualify for the last four for the first time since 2006? Make your predictions with BetVictor’s Morocco v Portugal World Cup Betting markets.
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