Though widely criticised, the Fifa World Cup 2022 has been filled with exciting moments, including Morocco becoming the first African country to reach the semifinals
A World Cup that has defied all expectations reaches its climax on Sunday when Lionel Messi could join Diego Maradona in Argentine immortality by taking the South Americans to the title, or France could become the first nation to retain it since 1962.But whatever happens, a tournament ridiculed in the build-up and which began a little awkwardly delivered an exhilarating rollercoaster ride that even the cynics leapt on board.
Harnessing the energy of their followers, Walid Regragui’s men scored victories over European aristocrats Belgium, Spain and Portugal on the way to becoming the first African and first Arab country to reach the last four. The 48 games produced 120 goals, only two red cards and enough head-spinning moments to garnish three tournaments.
Japan stunned Spain in a stomach-churning finish to Group E, which at one point looked to be sending Costa Rica and Japan into the last 16 at the expense of Spain and Germany. Morocco went toe-to-toe with Spain in an absorbing 0-0 draw, then knocked out the 2010 champions on penalties as Luis Enrique’s side failed to net a single kick.
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