By Victor Kanayo
Spain are out of the World Cup after losing a penalty shootout to Morocco 3-0 in the last 16 stage after both sides failed to score in 120 minutes on Tuesday December 5, 2022.
The sterling performance by the Moroccans has shot them to their first ever quarter-final stage.
Spain dominated possession in the first half but could not find a way past a resolute Morocco defence.
The best chance of the half came when Morocco defender Nayef Aguerd headed over from close range.
The 2010 World Cup champions remained dominant but could not find a breakthrough inside 90 minutes, sending the game to extra time.
Morocco enjoyed the better chances as they squandered a pair of one-on-ones and, with the scores still level, a penalty shootout was required.
In the shootout, Sarabia hit the post while Soler’s tame effort and Sergio Busquets’ spotkick were both saved by Yassine Bounou.
And Madrid-born Achraf Hakimi converted his penalty to send Morocco through to the quarter-final and see Spain suffer more shootout misery.
The result means the North African side will confront either Portugal or Switzerland billed to play their last 16 match on Tuesday night.
