Youssef En-Nesyri scored the lone goal that Morocco needed to defeat Portugal and advance to the World Cup semi-finals. As a result, Morocco became the first African team to compete in the World Cup semi-finals.

Bruno Fernandes and Pepe (white shirt) in the match against Morocco in the quarterfinals of the World Cup 2022

Bruno Fernandes and Pepe complained about how Argentine referee Facundo Tello handled the whistle during the pivotal game. Even the two stars came out in the public and “accused FIFA of organizing” the Argentinian referee crew to oversee the game in order to purposefully knock Portugal out.

The two Portuguese stars’ words, according to The Sun, would undoubtedly draw FIFA’s attention. There will be an inquiry, and both might face lengthy suspensions from participating in international competition.

Pepe had earlier indicated his discontent with referee Tello’s handling in an interview following the game on December 10.

After Lionel Messi and his teammates got to the semi-finals, the Porto player said he disagreed with the Argentinian referee being assigned to start this game.

“It’s unconscionable that an Argentine referee took our match today after what happened yesterday, with Messi complaining.”

“They were able to give Argentina the title based on what I saw today,” Pepe said.

Pepe reacts to the referee

Bruno Fernandes soon after continued to “”I don’t know if they’ll give the trophy to Argentina or not,” Pepe said, igniting his statement.

I don’t care; I’ll say what I think and then delete them.

It’s strange for a referee to kick us out of the league while we’re still in it.

They were clearly against us.”

FIFA has yet to issue an official statement in response to the Portuguese player’s accusations.

Ronaldo’s Portugal were eliminated from the tournament after a 0-1 loss to Morocco.

The African representative will face France in the semi-finals on December 15 at 2:00 p.m.