Morocco's Epic Run: Full Matches Of World Cup 2022

The Morocco World Cup 2022 campaign was nothing short of a fairy tale. It was a historic journey that captivated the hearts of fans worldwide. From stunning victories to nail-biting finishes, the Atlas Lions etched their names in football history. Let's dive into the full matches that defined their unforgettable run.

Group Stage Glory: Morocco's World Cup 2022 Journey Begins

Morocco's World Cup journey began in Group F, a challenging pool that included Belgium, Croatia, and Canada. Few expected them to emerge as group winners, but the Atlas Lions had other plans. Their resilience, tactical discipline, and unwavering spirit were on full display from the very first match.

Morocco vs. Croatia: A Tactical Masterclass

The opening match against Croatia, the 2018 World Cup finalists, was a tactical battle. Both teams were cautious, and the game ended in a 0-0 draw. However, the match showcased Morocco's defensive solidity and tactical awareness. They successfully neutralized Croatia's midfield maestros, Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić, frustrating their attempts to create scoring opportunities. This draw set the tone for Morocco's campaign, demonstrating their ability to compete against top-tier opponents.

The key to Morocco's defensive success was their disciplined formation and tireless work rate. The midfield duo of Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi were instrumental in shielding the defense and disrupting Croatia's attacks. The full-backs, Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui, provided width and defensive cover, while the center-back pairing of Romain Saïss and Nayef Aguerd were rock-solid in the heart of the defense. This collective defensive effort laid the foundation for Morocco's subsequent victories.

Morocco vs. Belgium: Upset of the Tournament

In their second group match, Morocco faced Belgium, the second-ranked team in the world. This was arguably the biggest upset of the tournament's group stage. The Atlas Lions produced a stunning performance, defeating Belgium 2-0. Goals from Romain Saïss and Zakaria Aboukhlal secured a historic victory and sent shockwaves through the football world.

Morocco's victory over Belgium was a testament to their tactical flexibility and attacking prowess. They defended resolutely, frustrating Belgium's star-studded attack, and then hit them on the counter with pace and precision. Hakim Ziyech was a constant threat, his incisive passing and dribbling skills causing problems for the Belgian defense. The introduction of Aboukhlal in the second half added fresh impetus to Morocco's attack, and he duly scored the decisive second goal. This win not only boosted Morocco's chances of qualifying for the knockout stage but also established them as a serious contender in the tournament.

Morocco vs. Canada: Sealing the Top Spot

In their final group match, Morocco faced Canada, who had already been eliminated. Despite Canada's spirited performance, the Atlas Lions secured a 2-1 victory, ensuring their place as group winners. Goals from Hakim Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri sealed the win and sparked jubilant celebrations among Moroccan fans worldwide.

This match highlighted Morocco's attacking firepower and their ability to control the game. Ziyech's early goal settled any nerves, and En-Nesyri's strike further consolidated their lead. Although Canada pulled a goal back, Morocco remained composed and saw out the game to secure a memorable victory. Finishing top of Group F was a remarkable achievement, and it set the stage for their historic run in the knockout stage.

Knockout Stage Heroics: Morocco's Unforgettable Run

Having topped their group, Morocco entered the knockout stage with confidence and momentum. They faced some of the biggest names in world football, but they were undeterred. Their unwavering belief, tactical discipline, and passionate support propelled them to unprecedented heights.

Round of 16: Morocco vs. Spain - A Penalty Shootout Thriller

In the round of 16, Morocco faced Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions. This was a tense and cagey affair, with both teams struggling to break the deadlock. The game went to extra time and then to a penalty shootout, where Morocco emerged victorious. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero, saving two penalties to send his team through to the quarter-finals.

Morocco's victory over Spain was a triumph of defensive resilience and mental fortitude. They absorbed immense pressure from Spain's relentless passing game, but they refused to buckle. Bounou's heroics in the penalty shootout were the culmination of a superb individual performance and a testament to his composure under pressure. This win was a historic moment for Moroccan football, marking only the second time they had reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

Quarter-Final: Morocco vs. Portugal - History Made!

The quarter-final clash against Portugal was another historic moment for Morocco. They defeated the European giants 1-0, becoming the first African team to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup. Youssef En-Nesyri's towering header proved to be the difference, sparking wild celebrations among Moroccan fans worldwide.

Morocco's victory over Portugal was a masterclass in tactical execution and team spirit. They defended with unwavering discipline, frustrating Portugal's star-studded attack, and then capitalized on a rare opportunity to score the winning goal. En-Nesyri's header was a moment of sheer brilliance, and it sent Morocco into uncharted territory. This win was not only a victory for Moroccan football but also a triumph for the entire African continent.

Semi-Final: Morocco vs. France - The Dream Ends

In the semi-final, Morocco faced France, the defending World Cup champions. Despite a valiant effort, the Atlas Lions were defeated 2-0. Goals from Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani ended their dream run, but they exited the tournament with their heads held high.

Morocco's semi-final defeat against France was a heartbreaking moment, but it should not overshadow their remarkable achievements. They had defied all expectations to reach this stage, and they had won the hearts of fans worldwide with their passion, determination, and skill. Although they fell short of reaching the final, they had made history and inspired a generation of Moroccan footballers.

Playoff for Third Place: Morocco vs. Croatia - A Final Battle

In the playoff for third place, Morocco faced Croatia once again. This time, Croatia emerged victorious, winning 2-1. Despite the defeat, Morocco's players were given a hero's welcome upon their return home, their remarkable achievements celebrated by the entire nation.

Morocco's Legacy: Inspiring a Continent

Morocco's World Cup 2022 journey was more than just a footballing success; it was a cultural phenomenon. They united a nation, inspired a continent, and showcased the best of Moroccan football to the world. Their story will be told for generations to come, and their legacy will continue to inspire young footballers across Africa and beyond.

The Atlas Lions' success was built on a foundation of strong leadership, tactical discipline, and unwavering team spirit. Coach Walid Regragui instilled a sense of belief and togetherness in the squad, and he created a system that allowed his players to thrive. The team's star players, such as Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, and Yassine Bounou, all rose to the occasion, delivering outstanding performances throughout the tournament. But it was the collective effort of the entire squad that ultimately propelled Morocco to unprecedented heights.

Morocco's World Cup 2022 journey will be remembered as one of the greatest underdog stories in football history. They defied all expectations to reach the semi-finals, and they captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their passion, determination, and skill. Their legacy will continue to inspire young footballers across Africa and beyond, and their story will be told for generations to come.

Relive the Magic: Watch the Full Matches

If you want to relive the magic of Morocco's World Cup 2022 journey, you can find the full matches online on various sports platforms and streaming services. Watching these matches again will allow you to appreciate the tactical brilliance, the individual brilliance, and the sheer passion that defined Morocco's unforgettable run.

From the tactical masterclass against Croatia to the stunning victory over Belgium, from the penalty shootout heroics against Spain to the historic win against Portugal, each match tells a story of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief. So, grab some snacks, settle in, and relive the magic of Morocco's World Cup 2022 journey. You won't be disappointed!