World Cup 2022

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Morocco vs Portugal LIVE SCORE: Stream FREE, TV channel – En Nesyri heads Morocco into stunning lead, Ronaldo BENCHED

      by

      MOROCCO are leading Portugal 1-0 in their World Cup quarter-final.Cristiano Ronaldo has been benched again, and is watching on from the subs’ bench.
      The ex-Manchester United star had to watch from the bench as his team-mates thrashed Switzerland 6-1 in the last-16, with his replacement Goncalo Ramos scoring a hat-trick.
      But it is Portugal who are behind at half-time, with Youssef En-Nesyri giving his side the lead, heading past Diogo Costa.

      Kick-off: 3pm UK time
      TV channel: ITV1
      Live stream: ITV X
      Morocco XI: Bounou, Hakimi, El Yamiq, Saiss, Attiat- Allah, Amrabat, Ounahi, Amallah, Ziyech, En Nesyri, Boufal.
      Portugal XI: Diogo Costa, Dalot, Pepe, Rúben Dias, Guerreiro, Neves, Otávio, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, Gonçalo Ramo

      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST WORLD CUP BETTING OFFERS AND FREE BETS
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
      47, If anything the whistles from the Morocco fans are even louder in this second half.
      This is a big test for Portugal.
      Second half: Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
      46, We’re back underway here at Al-Thumuma Stadium.
      Can Morocco hold on or will Portugal find a way back into it?
      Let’s find out!
      Inside the stadium
      SunSport’s Oscar Paul in Qatar:
      Yousseff En-Nesyri’s second goal of the World Cup is the difference here at a tense, loud and bouncing Al Thumama Stadium.It was a decent cross from left-back Yahia Attiyat Allah and a good header by the Sevilla striker – but what on earth was Portugal keeper Diogo Costa doing?He came off his line, indicating he was going to punch it clear, but was too weak and got nowhere near it as En-Nesyri nodded home.The game needed a goal, and it’s been absolute chaos ever since the 42nd-minute opener.Bruno Fernandes almost levelled up straight away but saw an audacious strike from a ridiculous angle cannon off the bar.And then right on the stroke of half time, Morocco broke at breakneck speed only for Attiyat Allah to lose all composure and spoon wide from a golden position.
      Oscar Paul SunSport
      Match stats
      Here’s the match stats from that first half.

      Disappointing Portugal
      Morocco have nullified Portugal’s front three.
      Goncalo Ramos has barely had a touch out there.
      If only Portugal had someone to come off the bench…
      He couldn’t could he?
      Half-Time: Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
      Morocco lead at the break!
      Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
      45+2, Attiyat Allah misses the chance to double Morocco’s lead just before half time.
      Morocco break forward with a three-on-three counterattack and ball eventually falls to the left back who slices an effort wide when he had time to set himself.
      Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
      45, We’re going to play two additional minutes at the end of this half.
      The camera cuts to a shell-shocked looking Cristiano Ronaldo on the Portugal bench.
      GOAL! Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal

      42, Morocco take the lead!
      It’s a goal that the Portugal goalkeeper will not want to see again.
      He comes out to claim Attiyatt Allah’s looping cross from the left but is beaten to the ball by a magnificent leap from En Nesyri who heads into the unguarded goal.

      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      39, Joao Felix sees a shot fly over the crossbar.
      Neither side have their shooting boots on today it seems.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      37, Morocco are growing into this game.
      All of a sudden they look comfortable in possession.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      35, The Portuguese defenders have been very wary to commit themselves when Boufal has the ball on the left wing.
      The former Southampton man drops his shoulder and sends an effort towards goal but it’s straight at Diogo Costa.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      35, Amallah sweeps the ball miles over the crossbar having been found by Attiat Allah’s cutback from the left.
      Good play there by Morocco.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      33, Portugal seem to have taken a leaf out of the Netherlands’ book yesterday and are just pumping the ball up to the big man up front.
      Seems a bit early to resort to those tactics – not that the Moroccan defenders have minded too much.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      30, So close from Joao Felix!
      His shot from the edge of the box gets a big deflection and lands on the roof of the net.
      Bounou had no chance of stopping it after he had thrown himself in the initial direction of Felix’s shot.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      27, Every Portugal touch is being met with whistles from Morocco’s sizeable travelling support at the stadium.
      It feels like this game is being played Casablanca.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      26, A decent chance for En-Nesyri as he heads Ziyech’s cross well wide of the Portugal goal.
      En-Nesyri got across his marker but couldn’t direct his header on target.
      If there’s going to be a goal in this game it seems as though it’ll come from a set piece.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      23, Oof! Bit of a collision between Bounou and Bruno Fernandes.
      The goalkeeper did well to claim the ball but was clattered into by the Portuguese midfielder.
      Bit of afters between Fernandes and some of the Moroccan defenders but all’s well that ends well.

      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      21, Morocco look quite insightful when they do venture forwards.
      They’ve got plenty of players who are good at progressing the ball up to the edge of the penalty area but nobody who you’d bet your house on finishing a chance.
      I write this as another dangerous looking Ziyech cross falls safely into the arms of Diogo Costa without a single Moroccan attacker challenging to get on the end of it.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      18, Ziyech cuts inside and shoots but it rolls harmlessly wide of Diogo Costa’s goal.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      16, This already feels like a game that could be decided late on by one of the substitutes…

      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      13, Another free kick from wide on the right sees Raphael Guerreiro have a goal-bound volley well-blocked by a Moroccan defender.
      Portugal are finding some joy with set pieces in the early stages here.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      12, Portugal are just popping the ball about, making sure that everyone gets a nice early touch in.
      Morocco are just watching them do it and only deciding to press once the ball progresses beyond the halfway line.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      9, There are a number of empty seats inside the stadium and reports that some ticketless fans have been trying to gain entry.
      Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
      6, Morocco get forward for the first time.
      Attiat Allah gallops forward down the left wing and earns a corner for his side.
      The resulting corner is headed over by En-Nesyri when he should perhaps have done better.
      Load more entries… More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I’m psychologically destroyed’ – Distraught Neymar reveals he was paralysed with tears after Brazil’s World Cup exit

      by

      NEYMAR has revealed that he was “physically distraught” and “paralysed for 10 minutes” after Brazil’s World Cup exit.The PSG star was left in tears as his World Cup dream ended following a penalty shoot-out defeat to Croatia.
      Neymar was left in tears as his World Cup dream was endedCredit: Rex
      Neymar’s extra-time goal looked to have put the Samba Boys into the semi-finals and on course to end 20-years of hurt.
      But Bruno Petkovic’s 116th minute strike sent the game to penalties and the 2018 finalists held their nerve after Rodrigo and Marquinhos missed.
      As a result, Neymar didn’t even end up taking a penalty, with the ex-Barcelona man in line to take Brazil’s fifth.
      The 30-year-old has already revealed that he might never play in the World Cup again and has now explained how he felt after the game.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      On Instagram he said: “Psychologically, this was certainly the defeat that hurt the most, which made me paralyzed for 10 minutes and then I burst into tears nonstop.

      “It’s going to hurt for a loooong time, unfortunately.
      “We fought until the end, and I’m proud of my teammates because there was no lack of commitment or dedication.
      “This group deserved it, we deserved it, BRAZIL deserved it… But that was not God’s will! It was worth every sacrifice to feel the affection of each one on the field.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST WORLD CUP BETTING OFFERS AND FREE BETS
      “Thank you all for your support with our selection. Unfortunately it didn’t work… it’s going to hurt for a long, long time.
      “Thank you for everything my GOD, you gave me everything and I can’t complain about anything.
      “Just thank you for taking care of me. All honour and all glory is always for you, regardless of the circumstances.”
      Neymar couldn’t prevent Brazil losing to Croatia on penalties More

    • 213 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Neymar slams former agent in X-rated post after he claims Brazil boss Tite ‘spent years deceiving people’

      by

      NEYMAR slammed his former agent in an X-rated blast as he leaped to the defence of outgoing Brazil boss Tite.The Samba Boys suffered a shock World Cup exit on penalties to Croatia yesterday, with Neymar not even taking a spot-kick.
      Neymar has leaped to the defence of ex-Brazil boss TiteCredit: EPA
      And despite being tipped as favourites to win in Qatar, Brazil are heading home after a fourth quarter-final defeat in their last five tournaments.
      Gaffer Tite announced his resignation immediately after the loss, ending his six-year spell in charge.
      And many in Brazil have been laying into the outgoing manager, including Neymar’s former agent Wagner Ribeiro.
      He posted a brutal message online, saying: “This gentleman was never a football coach. He spent years deceiving the people losing two cups.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      “He only has to be the PRAYER of the alumni class.”
      But this prompted a furious response from Neymar, 30, who had shined as a No10 in Tite’s system.
      The Paris Saint-Germain ace boomed: “Don’t talk s**t Wagner!”
      It now remains to be seen if Neymar continues playing for Brazil.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST BETTING APPS FOR THE WORLD CUP
      He managed to equal Pele’s official international goal record of 77 strikes last night.
      But afterwards, Neymar hinted the pain of defeat was so strong that he may not play for Brazil again.
      Neymar said: “Honestly, I do not know. I think talking now is bad because of the heat of the moment. Maybe I’m not thinking straight.
      “To say that this is the end would be rushing myself, but I don’t guarantee anything either. Let’s see what happens going forward.
      “I want to take this time to think about it, think about what I want for myself. I will not close the door to playing with Brazil, nor do I say 100 per cent that I’ll come back.
      “I need to think a bit more about this, about what is the right thing for me and for the national team.” More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Stony-faced Georgina Rodriguez watches Portugal vs Morocco from stands as Cristiano Ronaldo is dropped AGAIN

      by

      GEORGINA RODRIGUEZ was in attendance to watch Cristiano Ronaldo against Morocco – but the superstar was named on the bench.Ronaldo was dropped from the Portugal side to face Switzerland in the last-16 following a bust-up with manager Fernando Santos.
      Georgina Rodriguez did not look impressed after Cristiano Ronaldo was named on the bench again
      Georgina criticised Fernando Santos for dropping RonaldoCredit: AFP
      Ronaldo has started consecutive Portugal games on the benchCredit: Getty
      The striker reacted badly to being substituted against South Korea and Santos was not happy with his behaviour.
      Ronaldo’s replacement Goncalo Ramos scored a hat-trick as Portugal beat Switzerland 6-1, though CR7 did play a cameo role.
      But he started on the bench against Morocco – and Georgina was not amused.
      She had a stern look as she watched on from the stands waving a Portugal flag.
      READ MORE ON WAGS
      Georgina also went to Portugal vs Switzerland and looked glamorous wearing black dress and jacket while holding a luxury handbag.
      The Spaniard managed a smile on that occasion but was a little irritated after the match as she showed support for Ronaldo.
      Georgina said: “Congratulations Portugal.
      “While the 11 players sang the anthem all the goals placed on you.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST OFFERS FOR EXISTING CUSTOMERS FOR DECEMBER 2022
      “What a shame not to have been able to enjoy the best player in the world during the 90 minutes.
      “The fans have not stopped claiming you and shouting your name.”
      She then sarcastically referred to Santos’ relationship with Ronaldo, adding: “I hope that God and your dear friend Fernando continue hand in hand and make us vibrate one more night.” More

    • 150 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Morocco vs Portugal referee Facundo Tello at World Cup 2022?

      by

      FACUNDO TELLO is no stranger to dishing out yellow and red cards.And the experienced Argentinian referee is in charge for Morocco’s quarter-final clash against Portugal.
      Facundo Tello is one of 39 referees officiating at Qatar and is not afraid of dishing out red cardsCredit: AFP
      Argentina’s Facundo Tello makes up a group of six South American officials travelling to the Middle East and is in charge as the Swiss take on the Indomitable Lions.
      Here is some more information on the Argentine’s career.
      Who is Facundo Tello?
      Facundo Tello was born in the Buenos Aires Province in 1982.
      Tello was quick to gain prominence in his homeland, officiating in the Primera Division after just four games in Argentina’s second tier.
      Read More on World Cup
      He was asked to officiate the first-ever Superclassic in 2018, returning the same year to referee the final, defining Sarmiento’s promotion to the Primera Division.
      In 2019, the 40-year-old gained recognition on the international stage, joining FIFA’s refereeing list.
      Most read in Football
      Tello was summoned to Chile where he was appointed the fourth official at the South American Under-20 Championship.
      A call-up to the 2021 Arab Cup followed, where he took charge of a match between Jordan and Morocco.
      He became infamous in Argentina for giving out 10 red cards during the Champions Trophy final where Racing Club played Boca Juniors and there was a massive melee.

      World Cup 2022Everything you need to know about the World Cup More

    • 213 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      France stars have spent week playing poker and watching England’s World Cup matches to prepare for quarter-final

      by

      FRANCE’S stars have been practising their poker faces ahead of tonight’s quarter-final clash against England.Didier Deschamps’ side are reported to have been enjoying playing poker at their World Cup base in Qatar.
      France have been working hard in training ahead of their quarter-final meeting with EnglandCredit: PA
      Senior players are alleged to have enjoyed playing poker in the eveningsCredit: PA
      French staff are reported to have shown footage of England games to Didier Deschamps’ players during their time offCredit: AP
      A group of France’s more experienced heads have gathered every night to play cards, according to L’Equipe.
      Olivier Giroud, Raphael Varane, Hugo Lloris and Antoine Griezmann are alleged to have grown close with while still enjoying “fierce competition” with each other.
      But the reigning champions aren’t just sitting around playing poker as they prepare to take on England.
      Les Bleus have been hard at work on the training pitch, and have also spent time extensively studying tapes of the Three Lions.
      Read More World Cup News
      L’Equipe say France staff have even been showing England games to the players during their time off.
      Although the tactic isn’t a new one just for the Three Lions.
      It’s claimed staff have played tapes of each of France’s opponents throughout the tournament during the players’ downtime.
      They have done so to try and drum up more tactical discussions -despite the team not being on the training pitch.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST WORLD CUP BETTING OFFERS AND FREE BETS
      England and France face off on Saturday evening for a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
      The two nations have met just twice before on football’s biggest stage – in 1966 and 1982 – with the Three Lions winning both times.
      Raheem Sterling is set to be involved in some capacity having returned to Qatar after flying home to be with his family following a burglary at his mansion.
      The 28-year-old took part in training on Friday just hours after rejoining the camp.
      Boss Gareth Southgate confirmed yesterday: “He will be involved tomorrow but it is hard to tell what his level is so we will have to assess that.
      “We are pleased he is back because he is an important player for us.”
      Whoever comes out on top will face the winners of Morocco vs Portugal for a place in the final.
      Raheem Sterling is set to be involved for England against FranceCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Sterling is back with the Three Lions after flying back to the UK to be with his family following a break-in at his mansionCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun More

    • 150 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Why is Morocco abbreviation MAR? Africans in action in World Cup 2022

      by

      APPEARING at only their second World Cup since 1998, Morocco are now in the quarter-final stages.The North Africans have one of the most exciting teams in their history and comfortably qualified for the tournament.
      Moroccan fans are hoping their side can spring a surprise in QatarCredit: AFP
      But eagle eyed fans have spotted something strange in their abbreviation.
      Morocco are playing at the World Cup in QatarCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Why is Morocco abbreviation MAR?
      You may have noticed during the tournament that the Morocco abbreviation is MAR and not MOR, as you might expect.
      This is because of the large French influence in the country, whilst the official languages of the country are Arabic and Berber.
      The French word for Morocco is Maroc – and the abbreviation MAR is therefore used for sporting events and as the official country code. More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Lionel Messi nowhere to be seen as Argentina train just hours after fiery World Cup win over Holland

      by

      ARGENTINA were back in training just hours after their heated World Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands, without talisman Lionel Messi.The South American nation played out one of the games of the tournament as they beat Louis van Gaal’s side on penalties after a 2-2 thriller in regulation time.
      Argentina’s squad train after their shootout win over the NetherlandsCredit: AP
      The squad appeared to be in a jubilant moodCredit: Reuters
      Boss Lionel Scaloni oversaw the sessionCredit: AP
      Paulo Dybala and Co in trainingCredit: Reuters
      The Roma ace was then thrown in the middle of a rondoCredit: Reuters
      Argentina superstar Lionel Messi was absent from trainingCredit: Reuters
      A brilliantly disguised pass and a spot kick from Messi were cancelled out by Wout Weghorst’s stunning brace before Emiliano Martinez became the nations penalty hero once again.
      But the teams were embroiled in heated exchanges throughout the match and at full-time.
      Despite the absence of Messi the squad were back in training following the dramatic shootout victory and appeared to be in a jubilant mood.
      They were pictured doing a spin session on bikes as boss Lionel Scaloni oversaw them.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      They were also pictured doing on the ball work with Roma ace Paulo Dybala pictured in the middle of a rondo.
      The win yesterday has set up a semi-final against beaten 2018 finalists Croatia.
      Croatia upset the odds ahead of Argentina’s match by sending favourites Brazil out on penalties.
      The match between the two victorious penalty taking teams will take place on Tuesday at 7pm UK time, with the winner of that game taking on Wednesday’s semi-final victor.
      Most read in Football
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST BETTING APPS FOR THE WORLD CUP
      England need to beat France on Saturday in order to be in contention for the semi-final.
      The clash will be England’s biggest test of the World Cup so far, with reigning champions France looking dangerous with top goalscorer Kylian Mbappe. More