Morocco’s Atlas Lions clawed in the first goal through a free-kick that caught Thibaut Courtois off guard in a 2-0 win over Belgium on Sunday.
Hakim Ziyech had his goal ruled out in the first half. The Chelsea winger went straight for goal from a free-kick, beating Courtois with a wicked effort at his near post, but Saiss had just mistimed his run as he challenged for Ziyech’s ball in.
However, at the 73rd minute, Sabiri was on hand to beat Courtois in Al Thumama. Morocco took the lead through Sabiri’s brilliant free kick. The Sampdoria midfielder lashed in a low driven shot from the left, past Courtois at his near post, and a late Zakaria Aboukhal strike clinched a 2-0 victory over Belgium.
The result shatters Group F, with Morocco leading going into matchday 3 with everything to play for between Croatia and Canada later today.
After a horrific result, Roberto Martinez’s side now needs to beat Croatia on Thursday to ensure their place in the last 16. Morocco, on the other hand, is now in charge of their own destiny, needing only a draw against Canada on the same day to advance.
