Morocco vs Portugal Prediction: Expect goals at both ends in this thrilling World Cup Quarterfinal fixture

Following their tremendous win over Spain in the round of 16, Morocco could become the first African side to grace the semifinals when they square off against Portugal at the Al Thumama Stadium. Portugal, who ran riot against Switzerland, remains the favourite; however, Morocco cannot be underestimated.

FIFA Ranking: 22nd

Last four games: DWWW

The Atlas Lions became the fourth African side to have made it to this round, and could do the unimaginable and became the first African side in the semifinals. Morocco are by far the best team of all the Africans in this tournament; their transition from defence to attack has been excellent.

Morocco refused to bow to La Roja's beautiful football and held them to a toothless draw in full-time. Even after additional time, the North African side remained determined and defended like a team. Walid's men knocked out Spain in the penalty shootout, winning (3-0).

Morocco Starting 11 (4-3-3): Bounou; Hakimi, El Yamiq, Benoun, Mazraoui; Ounahi, Amrabat, Amallah; Ziyech, En-Nesyri, Boufal.

FIFA Ranking: 9th

Last four games: WWLW

Portugal were frighteningly ruthless going forward against the Swiss, with six goals to Switzerland's one. Portugal scored as many goals against Switzerland as they had mustered across the entire group stage. It’s so easy for Fernando Santos' side, who had the former world best on the bench, to play their best game in the tournament.

Fernando Santos' men have been rampant at the World Cup, with the Selecao not failing to score in a single game. However, they face one of the best-organized defences in the competition and might find it challenging to keep with the record.

Portugal Starting 11 (4-3-3): Costa; Dalot, Pepe, Dias, Guerreiro; Otavio, Carvalho, Bernardo; Fernandes, Ramos, Felix.

Both sides have met twice in this competition, with Portugal winning the most recent win while Morocco edged the Selecao (1-3) in World Cup 1986.

Portugal proved to be one of the favourites to triumph in this competition with a whooping (6-1) victory over Switzerland. While Morocco believed they could match the top guys' pound for pound with victories over Belgium and Spain. If Ghana and South Korea can score against Portugal, the Atlas Lions can do it too. Morocco won’t be a walkover for the Selecao, and we are backing both sides to get a goal each for 2.06.

This encounter might result in a halftime draw for 2.10.

Just as we have seen under 2.5 goals in three out of Morocco's four games, we expect to witness a high-scoring encounter with over 2.5 goals here for 2.22.

Good luck!

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