Morocco lost a chance of earning $27 million (approximately Ksh3.3 billion) after their narrow 2-1 defeat in the 2022 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff match held at Khalifa International Stadium on Saturday, December 17.
The North African representatives fell behind early in the first half thanks to a Josko Gvardiol 7th-minute goal.
However, Croatia's lead was short-lived since Achraf Dari equalized for the Atlas Lions two minutes later with a lovely header.
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With a few minutes remaining before the end of the first, Mislav Orsic put Croatia ahead to ensure the 2018 finalists won the match.
Regardless of the painful defeat, Morocco went home with their heads held high due to their eye-catching displays.
They not only made history by becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach the semifinal of the high-profile tournament but also humbled heavyweights in the process.
The Walid Regragui-coached charges overcame the likes of Belgium, and Portugal to advance to the semis where they were bundled out by holders France.
Despite losing the play-off match, Morocco bagged $25 million (approximately Ksh 3.1 billion) for finishing fourth.
France is slated to play South American representatives Argentina in an eagerly anticipated final scheduled for Sunday, December 18, 2022.
In Qatar, the overall champions are expected to pocket a whopping $42 million (approximately Ksh 5.1 billion).
The second-place team on the other hand would go home with $30 million (approximately Ksh 3.7 billion).
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