FIFA World Cup 2018: Ronaldo’s Brilliance takes Portugal Closer to Round of 16
Jun 20, 2018 at 8:17 PM
Cristiano Ronaldo’s early goal was enough for Portugal to secure a narrow win over Morocco and now it takes them closer to the round of 16. While, with two defeats in a row, Morocco are out of the FIFA World Cu 2018.
It took just four minutes for Ronaldo to put Portugal on top with a stunning header.
Ronaldo grabbed his 4th goal in the tournament in just 4th minute of the match. The Real Madrid star wrestled away from his marker before diving low to head home past Mohamedi.
After taking the lead, Portugal created more chances but couldn’t capitalize. But on the other side, Morocco hit the top gear and started to create opportunities for themselves.
Portugal lost possession quite a lot of times in the first half and lost their rhythm. In the 27th minute of the match, Morocco appealed for a penalty, but the referee showed no interested and declined to go to the VAR.
After scoring a goal in the 4th minute, Ronaldo created a couple of opportunities for his mates, but the men in red failed to find the net.
Right from the start of the second half, Morocco kept looking for the goal that could keep them hanging in the tournament. Skipper Benetia missed a lot of opportunities. And, the closest he came to the goal is at the stoppage time. He produced another defender’s finish and failed to keep his shot on target.
The Portuguese goal-keeper Ruis Patrico had one of the best days on the pitch. He saved a lot of shots including a stunning save at the 57th minute of the match.
A stunning reflex from Patrico kept the score 1-0, as he leapt across to his right to deny Benetia.
Portugal will be taking on Saudia Arabia in their next encounter. While, Morocco who are already out of the tournament will take on Spain.
FT: Portugal 1-0 Morocco
Ronaldo 4′