File photograph of Luka Modric and Hakim Ziyech© AFP
Morocco held Croatia to a 0-0 draw of their opening sport of the World Cup on Wednesday, producing a spirited show towards the 2018 runners-up led by Luka Modric. Backed by Qatar’s giant Moroccan group on the Al Bayt Stadium, the Atlas Lions adopted up north African rivals Tunisia’s sturdy efficiency towards darkish horses Denmark a day earlier to frustrate Croatia. Coach Zlatko Dalic had urged Croatia to train warning following Saudi Arabia’s shock win over Argentina, a consequence Morocco captain Romain Saiss mentioned had “opened the door” for the match’s less-fancied groups.
Morocco took the sport to a Croatia facet that includes 4 gamers who began the 2018 remaining however struggled to create real possibilities towards a defence marshalled by the skilled Dejan Lovren.
Azzedine Ounahi unusually opted towards taking pictures when nicely positioned inside the realm, with Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi closely concerned down the fitting with out exerting undue stress on Croatia.
Ivan Perisic fired simply over from distance for Croatia after intercepting a dreadful cross from Selim Amallah, whereas goalkeeper Yassine Bounou blocked nicely along with his legs to disclaim Nikola Vlasic from shut vary.
Modric, the previous Ballon d’Or winner showing at his fourth World Cup on the age of 37, then hammered over from the sting of the field.
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Morocco misplaced Noussair Mazraoui early within the second half after his diving header was saved, the Bayern Munich full-back injuring himself when he tumbled awkwardly to the bottom.
Sofyan Amrabat poked Lovren’s goal-bound effort away off the road after a scramble at a nook, whereas Hakimi’s free-kick on the different finish was crushed to security by Croatian keeper Dominik Livakovic.
Solely as soon as have Morocco gone past the group stage, in 1986, however they may price their possibilities of advancing with video games to return towards an ageing Belgium workforce and Group F outsiders Canada.
Croatia pushed for a late winner however discovered Morocco’s defence in unforgiving temper as Walid Regragui’s facet secured a invaluable and deserved level.
(This story has not been edited by NDTV employees and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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