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DOHA. — Morocco go into the biggest game in their history today when they take on Portugal in a FIFA World Cup quarter-final at the Al Thumama Stadium, the first time they have reached this stage of the competition.
The European side will be overwhelming favourites to win, but Morocco, who ousted Spain in the last round, have shown they can be competitive with any team in Qatar.
Here are five talking points ahead of the game.
A SOLID GAME-PLAN
Morocco’s game-plan has been clear in this World Cup. They are happy for better teams to have the ball and back themselves to keep their opponents out, and then hit them on the quick counter-attack with their skilful forwards.
Against Spain, they had as little as 27 per cent of the ball, but in truth the European side barely troubled them at the back as Morocco stayed compact and watched their opponents pass and pass with little effect.
It will be the same against Portugal, though the latter can be more direct and have some real game-breakers in the likes of Bruno Fernandes, who can unluck a defence with one move.
It is a slightly more risker tactic for Morocco this time round, but they can’t afford to try and go toe-to-toe with Portugal. They will be out-gunned.
INJURIES?
Morocco face an anxious wait over some of their key players, not least key defender Nayed Aguerd, who was in tears when he was forced off against Spain. He has only just returned from an ankle injury picked up in pre-season at West Ham after the latter paid Stade Rennes £30 million for his services ahead of the current campaign.
His tears suggest he knows it is another bad one, but Morocco will do everything in their power to get him fit because he is such a key player for them.
Another worry is midfield destroyer Sofyan Amrabat, who has been simply superb in this tournament, but admitted he was playing through the pain and injections against the Spanish. His loss would eb devastating. — AFP.
Online Reporter