WFI‘s Adam Brandon counts down to Russia 2018 with 90 World Cup goals in 90 days, scored in the minute corresponding to the day in the countdown.
Context
On the opening day of the 1998 World Cup, just a couple of hours after Brazil had beaten Scotland, Morroco played out an entertaining 2-2 draw with Norway.
It was Morocco’s fourth appearance at a World Cup, with their best coming in 1986 where they reached the last 16.
They finished above England, Poland and Portugal to become the first African side to win a group at the FIFA World Cup.
A 1976 African Cup of Nations triumph remains the Atlas Lions only major silverware, but often prove a tough nut to crack as Norway and Scotland would find out in 1998.
The opening game against the Norwegians saw Morocco take the lead through Mustapha Hadji’s individual brilliance before an Youssef Chippo own goal evened things up before the break.
The Goal
On the hour mark Abdeljalil Hadda gives Morocco the lead again with this wonderful touch and finish…
What Happened Next?
Norway equalised again and the draw would prove costly for Morocco as Norway drew with Scotland and then shocked everybody by beating Brazil late on.
It was heartbreak for the Moroccans who had thrashed Scotland 3-0 and looked convinced of their qualification until the final minute.
Morocco have endured a 20 year wait to be back in the World Cup, so Russia 2018 is set to be very special for them. They kick off on day two of the tournament with a match against Iran.