The Croatians always found the going easy against CAF representatives at the World Cup until they met the dogged North Africans
Morocco’s Atlas Lions held European bigwigs Croatia to a goalless draw inside the Al Bayt Stadium in the first match of Group F at the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Boasting world-renowned stars like Real Madrid’s Luka Modric, Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic, and Inter Milan’s Marcelo Brozovic, Croatia were the favourites to pick a win against Morocco on Wednesday afternoon.
The Blazers also held a perfect winning run against African teams, having won their two FIFA World Cup games against African opposition with an aggregate of 6-0.
Croatia crushed Cameroon 4-0 at the 2014 World Cup before running out 2-0 winners over Nigeria in Russia 2018.
In a Group D clash in Kaliningrad, an Oghenekaro Etebo own goal and a second-half Luka Modric penalty were enough for Croatia to outclass the Mikel Obi-skippered Super Eagles.
Croatia reached the tournament’s final, while Nigeria crashed out at the group stage following a late defeat to Argentina.
But Morocco refused to follow the script as coach Walid Regragui-led Atlas Lions fought the Europeans to a standstill in Qatar for a share of the spoils.
This post was last modified on November 23, 2022 1:14 pm