Today's monumental pair of matches made history in more ways than one. Morocco emerged victorious over Portugal, carrying the dream of billions in Africa, the Arab world, and across the globe as they become the first African country to make it to a World Cup semifinal. Defying the colonial gaze, Morocco has cultivated a bonafide world-class team that, with the wind of collective joy in their sails, can make it all the way. On the other side, superstar Cristiano Ronaldo goes home in tears, never having caught his white whale of a World Cup title or a knockout goal, a missing jewel in his glittering career record. Alan analyzes the Ahab-like efforts and setbacks of an England side that held its own and more against France - but for that magic moment between Griezmann and Giroud that won the game for France, and Harry Kane's tragic moment at the penalty spot, ending England's quixotic quest to bring it home.
We also pay tribute to the late great Grant Wahl, legendary soccer journalist and voice for justice and human rights, who passed away yesterday in Qatar during the Argentina-Netherlands game. He brought global football to a wide audience in the US and his influence and generosity is felt throughout the soccer world and in the hearts of everyone who knew him. He is dearly missed by all who know and love this beautiful game.
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