As people celebrate, the high-fives and hugs in the stands create a great sense of community. Many fans cry in joy as the Moroccan players thank their supporters for providing an intense and exhilarating atmosphere not only tonight but throughout the tournament.
The last African team left in the 2022 World Cup defense was stellar, as they showed they could secure a victory in extra time. Unfortunately, Spain could not capitalize on their chances, and after missing three penalty kicks in the shootout, they exited Saturday’s third-place match.
Morocco defeated Spain in a thrilling round of 16 matches on penalties, making it to the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time.
Spain had the majority of possession in the first 45 minutes but was almost unable to find a way through Morocco’s disciplined defense. Luis Enrique’s side didn’t score until Marco Asensio hit their only shot, which went into the stands, with both Gavi and Ferran Torres denied by spectacular blocks from opposing defenders. The odds at online FIFA betting sites were reletively high during this time.
Morocco was looking to soak up pressure and find space on the break, but their counterattacks weren’t exactly working. Saw Noussair Mazraoui’s shot from range sting Unai Simon, who then headed over a golden chance created by Sofiane Boufal’s trickery.
The game seemed all-around until Spain’s Alvaro Morata came on in the second half. After his introduction, he scored a beautiful goal, and Morocco was restricted to a single goal in the second period.
The African side had two chances to win extra time in the first half, but both opportunities fell to Moroccan defenders who cleared their lines.
Cameroon became the only team of the African subcontinent in 1990 to get into the quarterfinals of FIFA World Cup history consecutively. However, Morocco has matched Cameroon with this win and has secured a place for themselves in the quarterfinals.