FIFA World Cup 2022 Cristiano Ronaldo Morocco vs Portugal: Portugal looked impressive in their 6-1 win over Switzerland in the last-16 of the FIFA World Cup. But his captain Cristiano Ronaldo could not attend the match. Will the senior 37-year-old return to the starting XI for Saturday’s quarter-final against Morocco or will he have to sit on the bench again? It remains to be seen but Moroccan coach Walid Regaraguijo will be happy to see him sitting on the bench.
Ronaldo was sacked by Fernando Santos after angering Portugal’s coach in their final World Cup group match against South Korea.
The former Manchester United striker’s absence was not felt against Switzerland, where Goncalo Ramos replaced him and scored a hat-trick of superb goals, while Pepe, Rafael Guerreiro and Rafael Leao also scored.
Regargui said, I do not know whether Ronaldo will play or not. I hope he doesn’t play. As a coach, I know he is one of the best players in history. I would be happy if he doesn’t play.”
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But we are not going to focus on Portugal, he said. They are a great team, they too want to go into the history books. We’re going to have more supporters in the stadium supporting us.”
Regargui said his team also aims to make history, with Morocco enjoying their best ever performance at a World Cup. Regargui said, I want to change that mindset. A whole range of African coaches can train European clubs.