Morocco earned sent a clear message to the rest of the world when they faced European giants Croatia in a Group F opener of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup at the Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday in an early lunch kick off.
The North Africans played out to a goalless draw with their European counterparts with a vibrant crowd cheering both teams till the very last whistle.
Coach Walid Regragui put his faith in safe pair of hands Yassine Bounou in goal while Romain Saiss, Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd and Noussair Mazraoui made up the back four. Sofyan Amrabat was tasked to do all the dirty work in midfield for the Atlas Lions with Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri and Sosiane Boufal leading the attack.
For Croatia it was Luka Modric, Ivan Perisic and Kramaric who were expected to deliver for the Europeans.
However the Atlas Lions put up a strong rearguard in attempt to frustrate and starve Luka Modric the time and space in the pitch.
Morocco were worth and steady opponents for the entire match with Hakimi and Ziyech making good runs on the right hand side.
Bounou made a brilliant save in the closing stages of the first half denying Vlasic a chance to put the ball in the net.
It was goalless at the end of the first 45 minutes.
Morocco began the second half resolute and determined denying Croatia room to create any real chances. Achraf Hakimi saw his long range freekick sting the gloves of Livakovic while on the other side, Modric saw his inswing freekick cleared by En-Nesyri.
Mazraoui was nearly played in of the far post with his attempted header saved by Livakovic. Unfortunately he injured himself in the process and was withdrawn.
Despite Croatia having more of the ball, Morocco remained resolute and produced a fantastic result against a very top quality opponent. A point well-earned for the Atlas Lions of Morocco.
Next on the schedule for Morocco is Belgium on Sunday 27 November at the Al Thumama Stadium.
