adminDOHA. – Last night was going to live LONG in the memory for Moroccans across the world.
For the 45,000 madcap supporters here in Doha, for the 37 million back home, and for the rioters who torched Belgium and the Netherlands on Sunday.
Talisman Hakim Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri were the heroes as the Atlas Lions won 2-1 over Canada and booked their place in the knockout stages for just the second time after reaching the last-16 in 1986.
Thirty-six long years have passed since then – and the class of ‘22 do not look done yet.
They will face the runners up from Group E, so one of Spain, Germany, Japan or Costa Rica.
The Atlas Lions became the second African country to make the Round of 16 here in Qatar.
On the same day, Belgium were knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage as Croatia progressed at their expense with a goalless draw in Qatar.
Roberto Martinez’s side, who finished third in Russia four years ago and are ranked second in the world, have had a disappointing tournament with just one win in three matches.
They produced another lacklustre display against Croatia despite knowing a win was necessary to progress to the last 16.
Substitute Romelu Lukaku had numerous chances in the second half but failed to convert any of them. – The Sun/BBC Sport
Online Reporter