Pinch me, I am dreaming, remarks Morocco goalie Bounou after win over Portugal in quarterfinal
Dec 10, 2022
Al Thumama [Qatar], December 11 : Following his side's win over Portugal in the quarterfinals of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou expressed his happiness over the win, saying that his side is ready to face anyone and has changed the mentality of the generation coming after them.
Morocco scripted history on Saturday to become the first African nation to qualify for the last four of the World Cup after defeating Portugal 1-0 in the quarterfinal.
"Pinch me, I am dreaming," Bounou was quoted as saying by Sky Sports. He is yet to concede a goal in this tournament.
"Morocco is ready to face anyone in the world. We have changed the mentality of the generation coming after us. They will know Moroccan players can create miracles," he added.
The African nation staged a massive upset to knock Portugal out of the World Cup as they held onto their one-goal lead at halftime to book a maiden slot in the FIFA World Cup semifinals. A resilient Morocco found the back of the net through Youssef El-Nesyri in the 42nd minute. The forward went airborne and headed the cross from Attiyat Allah to give his side the advantage which proved fatal for Portugal.
Morocco bettered their record against Portugal after the win having won two of their three matches. The loss for Portugal will be very disappointing for Ronaldo who has probably played his last World Cup given his age.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who came on as a second-half substitute, was unable to make a difference. The forward left the pitch in tears with his World Cup dream ending in this edition.
Morocco overcame expectations and challenges to reach the semi-finals, defeating Croatia, Belgium, Spain, and now Portugal. The Atlas Lions are now two steps away from glory. Portugal went all out but Morocco overcame tiredness, injury, and nervousness in the knockout game to earn a remarkable victory. The team held the European side for a memorable win.
