WORLD CUP: Morocco stun Spain on penalties to reach quarter-finals

Morocco are in the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in history after Spain missed three penalties in a dramatic shootout following a 120-minute stalemate.

Spain’s deficiencies in attack were laid bare – restricted to just one shot in the first 45 minutes, their fewest in the first half of a World Cup game since at least 1966 – as they were eventually dumped out.

Morocco had the best chance of the match before half-time when West Ham centre-back Nayef Aguerd headed over from close range.

In extra time, following a drab second half, Morocco substitute Walid Cheddira was denied one-on-one by Unai Simon before Pablo Sarabia grazed a post with a volley in the final minute.

With both sides unable to be separated, Sarabia incredibly hit a post again with Spain’s first spot-kick before Carlos Soler and Sergio Busquets had theirs saved by Bono, leaving Achraf Hakimi to coolly chip the winning penalty down the middle to send Morocco through.

Morocco will now face either Portugal or Switzerland, who play in the quarter-finals on Saturday, December 10. (Sky Sports)