WORLD CUP fans and even the BBC were left totally baffled as Morocco’s goalkeeper appeared to be substituted before kick-off – despite lining up for the national anthem.
Morocco named Yassine Bounou – aka Bono – in the starting XI to face Belgium this afternoon.
The No1 walked out of the tunnel with his team-mates and lined up as the North African nation belted out their song.
He is then filmed shaking hands with the Belgium players as usual.
But then Munir Mohand Mohamedi El Kajoui is pictured in the official pre-match team photo.
There was a short delay as the Morocco team lined up and Belgium captain Eden Hazard waited for the coin toss because Munir was getting himself ready and some final words of encouragement from manager Walid Regragui.
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And the replacement, who is wearing No12 at the World Cup, took his place between the sticks in time for kick-off – with no sign of Bounou.
Even the BBC commentators, though, didn’t realise for around 25 minutes of the match and referred to the usual first-choice stopper when it was actually Munir who made a save from Michy Batshuayi in the first half.
And it did not take long for fans to spot the discrepancy, with ‘Bono’ trending on social media.
The confusion regarding the last-minute switch was clarified at half-time.
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BBC presenter Mark Chapman explained Bounou was feeling unwell and had a problem with his vision.
Chapman said: “Bounou was there as they sang the national anthem.
“He then complained to the coach about something wrong with his eyes.
“Look at how calm the coach is and goes over to El Kajoui with a smile.
“He joins for the photo and then played the first 45 minutes.”
Ironically, though, it was his opposite number Thibaut Courtois who came under fire after his error helped Morocco secure a shock 2-0 win.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
