En-Nesyri sends Morocco into World Cup semifinals

Morocco took the lead in the 44th minute following Attiyat Allah's probing run and cross from the left wing. En-Nesyri rose highest to beat Jota in an aerial duel before thumping his header into an unguarded net.

Fernandes almost struck a spectacular equalizer as he tried his luck from an acute angle only to see the ball deflect off the crossbar.

Attiyat Allah then blazed wide with only Jota to beat after being played through on goal by Azzedine Ounahi.

Morocco picked up where they left off after the interval as they ran at Portugal's defense without fear. El Yamiq forced a reflex save from Costa after connecting with Ziyech's cross and Ounahi drilled a shot over the crossbar.

Ronaldo was introduced in the 51st minute as a replacement for Neves and the veteran forward received a mixed chorus of jeers and cheers from the mostly pro-Morocco crowd.

The change appeared to make a difference as Portugal began to run with the ball while Morocco retreated deeper into their own half.

Ramos had has first genuine chance of the night just before the hour, heading wide from 12 yards after Otavio's cross and Fernandes then hammered a shot over the bar following Felix's jinking run and pass.

The latter drew a brilliant one handed save from from Bounou after running onto Ronaldo's one-touch pass and curling a dipping shot that appeared headed for the far corner.

Ronaldo then timed his run to perfection by latching onto a through ball before lashing a low attempt straight at Bounou.

Morocco were handed a numerical disadvantage after Cheddira, a 65th-minute replacement for Amallah, was shown his second yellow for a crude challenge on Felix.

It was pulsating end-to-end football as Morocco squandered a golden chance to extend their lead through Yahya Jabrane, who shot straight at Costa when he was through on goal.

Portugal were also guilty of missing late chances and Pepe will be ruing a free header at the far post after Rafael Leao's cross.