Morocco makes muslims happy with penalty victory over Spain
2 min read
The dramatic match between Morocco and Spain began on Tuesday night at Education City Stadium in Doha, Qatar, and was hailed as the last chance for the Arabs.
As was to be expected, the game began hotly, with both teams anxious to score as soon as possible to advance to the quarterfinals.
The 40,000-seat stadium was packed with a predominately Moroccan crowd, who alternated between cheering and whistles depending on whether Morocco was in control.
Hakimi’s early free kick for Morocco from just outside the penalty area sparked cheers as a beautiful curler missed the goal by the narrowest of margins.
Having control but not exercising it
The Moroccans then went on the attack, but the Spaniards were unable to control the ball before the defence and goalie hurried it away.
Despite this, Spain continued to control the ball, holding a commanding 81% advantage up until the 20th minute.
Spain had another excellent goal-scoring opportunity five minutes later, but Gavi hits the crossbar. Just in time, the Moroccan defence immediately gathered in front of the goal to thwart a second chance.
Morocco surged harder as halftime approached, finding themselves in the box twice and scoring two lovely crosses.
Although the Spaniards started the second half with less vigour than they had in the first, a motivated Moroccan team soon put them to the test.
At the 54-minute mark, Spain attempted a free kick, but Bono quickly blocked it. Amrabat receives the ball at his feet and immediately makes a run for goal before realising he is much offside.
Both teams became more heated as they competed to post the first point on the scoreboard. Spain dominated possession, yet it seemed like Morocco was taking more chances.
Spain had no luck
However, the game changed as Spain pounded Moroccan regions up until the 80th minute. By this time, either the Moroccan goal was hidden by an invisibility cloak or the Spaniards had no luck.
In the waning seconds, Morocco’s supporters appeared to be trying to distract the players by whistling at the Spaniards, which increased tensions on the field and in the seats. The plan appears to have been successful because a beautiful Spanish curler missed the target just before extra time was declared.
More time
As was to be expected, the stadium was packed, yet there was a noticeable air of tension as the players raced over the field in pursuit of a goal.
At 103 minutes, Morocco appeared to be on the verge of securing a spot in the quarterfinals thanks to smooth play by Cheddira, who was unable to score.
Every time Spain took control, the crowd continued to whistle.
Spain missed its first two attempts in the thrilling penalty shootout that ultimately resulted.
Morocco’s amazing 3-0 victory on penalties astonished the crowd.
The winner of Portugal’s match against Switzerland on Tuesday night will now face the Atlas Lions in the quarterfinals.
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