Stephen Dunmoye
The Atlas Lions of Morocco on Sunday claimed their first World Cup victory since 1998 after as they jeopardized Belgium’s world cup hopes in a disappointing 2-0 win at the Al-Thumma stadium.
After a barren first half, the Moroccans coasted home to victory after taking the lead via a free-kick — the first of the tournament to be converted — from Abdelhamid Sabiri in the 73rd minutes beat Thibaut Courtois in goal for Belgium.
Zakaria Aboukhlal then sealed the win for the North Africans in the 90th minute to close any door of return for the Belgians in the game.
Morocco had played out a disappointing goalless draw with Croatia in their group opener and needed to win against star-studded Belgium to keep hopes of qualification alive.
Morocco replace Belgium at the top of Group F and will qualify for the knockout phase for the first time since 1986 if they can avoid defeat against Canada on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the world’s second-ranked side, Belgium will have to beat 2018 runners-up Croatia to be sure of going through.
