Morocco into last 8 with penalty shootout win over Spain

Doha, Dec 6 (EFE).- Morocco beat Spain on penalties after a goalless draw at Education City Stadium to reach the quarterfinals of the World Cup for the first time in their history.

Achraf Hakimi, born and raised in Spain, scored the winning penalty with a nonchalant panenka to give Morocco a win their physicality, dynamism and direct approach deserved.

Spain, as expected, dominated possession but rarely troubled the Moroccan back line, and ended the match with their players standing in stunned silence in the center circle while Morocco’s players and coaching staff wildly celebrated their historic victory.

In fact, it was the North African side, backed by a heavily one-sided crowd, who created the clearer chances throughout a hard-fought 0-0 stalemate.

Morocco will face either Portugal or Switzerland in the quarter final. EFE

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