Morocco despite having lesser possession, had more shots on target, while Spain hit the target only on one occasion
By Kehinde Okeowo
Morocco qualified for the quarter-finals of the World Cup for the first time in their history after defeating European giant, Spain on penalties.
Luis Enrique’s side came closest to breaking the deadlock courtesy of Dani Olmo, who struck an arrowed drive from the angle which Bounou pushed away.
The Moroccan goalkeeper also did brilliantly well after he once again kept out Olmo’s dangerous free-kick late on.
Morocco were playing on the counter and should have scored in the opening period but Nayef Aguerd sent his unmarked header over.
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Noussair Mazraoui’s long-range drive which happens to be Atlas Lions’
only shot on target in 90 minutes was easily gathered by Unai Simon.
Walid Cheddira had Morocco’s best chance in the game but scuffed his shot straight at Simon from eight yards out.
Both sides had opportunities to settle the game in 120 minutes but they could not be separated. The game then went into extra time and eventually penalties.
During the shootout, Spain failed to convert any of their three penalties but goalkeeper Yaccine Bounou saved two, leaving PSG’s Hakimi to win it with a nerveless ‘Panenka’ which sparked jubilant scenes among Morocco fans.
The North Africans after the precious win now await the winner of the game between Portugal and Switzerland on Saturday
