Manchester City’s Ruben Dias was perplexed after the referee failed to award Portugal a penalty during their 1-0 quarter-final loss to Morocco..
Youssef En-Nesyri put the Africans ahead just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up at the back. When Bruno Fernandes was brought down by Achraf Hakimi, Portugal felt they should have had a chance to tie the game.
Following a VAR review, the officials determined that no further action was required and the game resumed. Protests from the Portuguese players continued after the break, with Fernandes expressing his rage in particular, and Dias was still fuming at the decision at full time..
The City resident told the media: “He raised the game’s decisions. He didn’t smile at us, but the team was there, and so was the attitude..
“We attempted to do everything possible. Penalty attempt? It appeared to us to be very clear.
“It eventually won the game. At the time, a draw sent everything back to square one.”
Pepe, Dias’ defensive partner, was even harsher on the Argentine referee, calling his professionalism into question. “This is stronger than I am, and I must say so,” he added.
“An Argentine referee reffing our game is unacceptable. Argentina will be champions, regardless of the referee’s feelings and arrogance on the field..
Portugal had chances to break down a tenacious Moroccan defense, but Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix were both denied in the second half. With the result, the African country made history by becoming the first team from their continent to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
After defeating England 2-1 in Saturday’s late kick-off, they will now face France in Al Khor on Wednesday..
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