fifa world cup 2022

Achraf Hakimi hits the decisive penalty with a cheeky Panenka. Photo by KARIM JAAFAR / AFP)

World Cup 2022: Morocco STUN Spain on penalties and advance to the quarterfinals

Morocco produced a brilliant defensive display to advance to the World Cup quarterfinals on penalties at the expense of Spain. Read our match report here.

fifa world cup 2022

Achraf Hakimi hits the decisive penalty with a cheeky Panenka. Photo by KARIM JAAFAR / AFP)

Morocco pulled off a stunning upset to beat Spain on penalties after a 0-0 draw at World Cup 2022 in Qatar.

It was a stubborn defensive display from the Atlas Lions under manager Walid Regragui, with excellent defensive efforts from Naif Aguerd and Romain Saiss in particular. Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat was also excellent in the holding role.

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Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced a heroic display in the shootout, and it was down to PSG full-back Achraf Hakimi to send Morocco fans into dreamland with his cheeky panenka penalty down the middle.

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World Cup 2022
Morocco now carry Africa’s World Cup 2022 hopes on their shoulders. Photo by KARIM JAAFAR / AFP)

Ironically, Hakimi was born in Madrid.

Morocco will face the winner of Portugal vs Switzerland on Saturday for the right to claim a place in the final four. What an upset!


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You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

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