World Cup 2022: Morocco hold Croatia to a draw
Morocco held firm against Croatia. The Atlas Lions drew with Luka Modric's team-mates.
Sport News Africa · Author profile ·
Listen to this story
Audio version in preparation · read aloud by your browser meanwhile
Group F served up its first big fixture of this 2022 World Cup. In an Al Bayt Stadium packed with Moroccan fans, the Atlas Lions drew 0-0 with Croatia.
In the first half, Morocco controlled the game superbly, particularly in the heart of midfield. The Moroccan midfielders cut off Croatia's passing lanes, stopping the Brozovic-Modric-Kovacic trio from feeding the forwards. Despite a good tempo and plenty of commitment, neither side found the net in the first half (0-0). Croatia did come close to taking the lead, though, with Yassine Bounou making a superb save from Nikola Vlašić (45+1), while Luka Modric put the ball over the bar (45+2).
Morocco stand up to the test
At the start of the second half, Morocco created their first big chance. Noussair Mazraoui thought he had opened the scoring with a header but was denied by the Croatian goalkeeper (51st). However, the full-back was hurt in the move, taking a knock to the hip. He was replaced by Yahya Attiat-Allah. His departure did not knock the Atlas Lions, who continued their very good performance. Achraf Hakimi (65th) fired a rocket from a free kick, but Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković made another save.
The Atlas Lions played their attacking cards boldly and defended superbly against Luka Modric's team-mates. Billed as the underdogs against the World Cup runners-up, Morocco may in fact feel they let something slip in this game. The Moroccans had more shots (8 to 5) than their opponents, with the same number on target. The draw nevertheless keeps Walid Regragui's side's hopes of qualification intact. Next up, on Sunday, is Belgium.
Morocco and Croatia share the points. 🤝@adidasfootball | #FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 23, 2022