Morocco's head coach Walid Regragui is thrown in the air at the end of the World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Morocco and Spain, at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Morocco Shocks Spain, Win On Penalties

Everyone loves an underdog, especially at the World Cup. Morocco is the tournament’s newest, and most exciting underdog.

Morocco shocked the world today, beating Spain 3-0 in their penalty shootout. The Atlas Lions will now advance to the World Cup Quarterfinals for the first time in their history.

https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1600185568016879616?s=20&t=MjbEIEcp8QMeGG5l8bra_g

Spain dominated the game, with 76.8% possession. La Furia Roja also had 13 shots to Morocco’s 6. But Morocco held the line, taking a 0-0 draw through extra time.

Spain was unable to capitalize on what should have been an easy penalty shootout, missing all three of their penalties. Morocco goalkeeper Bono was heroic during the penalty shootout, nabbing himself man of the match honors.

Meanwhile, three of Morocco’s four penalty takers made theirs, including an Achraf Hakimi panenka to seal Spain’s fate.

https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1600185321500688388?s=20&t=MjbEIEcp8QMeGG5l8bra_g

Morocco will next face the winner of this afternoon’s knockout round match between Portugal and Switzerland.

About Connor O'Bryan

Connor O'Bryan is a world soccer reporter for ESPN Gainesville. He also sometimes covers baseball and other sports. He has previously written for WUFT Gainesville and for Atrium Magazine. Connor also cohosts the "Off The Bar Podcast", a student driven podcast that focuses on the global soccer landscape.

Check Also

CONCACAF Nations League Preview: USMNT vs. Trinidad and Tobago

The CONCACAF Nations League knockout rounds begin tonight as the United States take on Trinidad …