‘They can give them the trophy’ – Fuming Pepe slams decision to let Argentine referee take charge of Morocco vs Portugal

PORTUGAL star Pepe fumed at the referee after his country’s elimination from the 2022 World Cup in the quarter-finals by Morocco.

The Atlas Lions beat Cristiano Ronaldo and co 1-0 thanks to Youssef En-Nesyri’s winner at the Al Thumama Stadium and became the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals.

Portugal star Pepe was fuming after the World Cup elimination to MoroccoAP

Pepe questioned the appointment of an Argentine referee for the match with MoroccoNot known, clear with picture desk

Porto star Pepe, though, lashed out during his post-match interview taking exception to the decision that led to Argentine referee Facundo Tello officiating the match.

The centre-back questioned Tello’s refereeing and didn’t agree with an Argentinean official being placed for this match after Lionel Messi and co made it to the semi-finals.

The 39-year-old suggested the refereeing was put together in a way that would benefit the Albiceleste’s World Cup hopes.

The Real Madrid legend even stated they “can already give Argentina the title”.

Pepe said: “It is inadmissible that an Argentine referee whistled at us today after what happened yesterday, with Messi complaining.

“After what I saw today, they can already give Argentina the title.”

Argentina will face Croatia in the semi-finals and will then meet the winner between Morocco and England or France if they make it to the final.

Portugal pose as the latest World Cup favourites the Moroccans eliminated from Qatar.

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Walid Regragui’s men also beat and eliminated Belgium in the group stage with a 2-0 victory.

The Moroccans then offloaded Spain in the Last 16 by beating them on penalties after a goalless draw.

And now the Moroccans have knocked Portugal out and made Ronaldo break down in tears at full-time.