Belgium 0-2 Morocco: 5 talking points as Atlas Lions sink lackluster Red Devils to boost last-16 hopes | 2022 FIFA World Cup

#3 Morocco serve a lesson in defending

The Atlas Lions were rock solid in defense

Morocco, ranked 20 places below Belgium, were the firm underdogs here. They looked set for a defeat only for them to tear the script apart and secure one of their greatest wins in the competition.

Laying the foundations of that victory was their resolute defense.The Atlas Lions kept the mighty Red Devils at arm's length for much of the game by blocking all passing lanes.

In fact, the north African outfit didn't face a single shot on target in the first half.

With not enough space to work through the middle, Belgium were forced to look to their wingers. They forced several set-pieces, but Morocco were strong aerially too, clearing all incoming crosses.

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#2 Sabiri nets a wonderful free-kick

It was Morocco's first-ever goal from a direct free-kick at the World Cup

Morocco went ahead in the match through a direct free-kick from Abdelhamid Sabiri. It was also the first goal from a direct free-kick of the tournament, and it couldn't have been struck better.

The 25-year-old stood up over the dead ball from about 25 yards out but from a difficult angle. He nonchalantly curled the ball in beyond Thibaut Courtois' despairing dive, who arguably should have done better.

It was a free-kick of top quality and one that even Lionel Messi would be proud of.

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#1 Group F blown wide open

Morocco now have four points in two games, putting them in firm position to progress

Coming into the match, Belgium had three points from their opening-day win over Canada, while Morocco, who drew with Croatia, were on just one.

Another win for the Red Devils seemed almost certain, which could've also guaranteed their place in the round of 16. However, the shock defeat has thrown the group open.

As things stand, Belgium are third in the group with three points. It's also worth noting that they face the 2018 World Cup runners-up in their final group fixture in what's a must-win match for them now.

Belgium's golden generation have come up short each time. Now, in possibly their last chance at winning a trophy, they are on the brink of losing out in the first stage itself.