Plucky Morocco have knocked Spain out the World Cup to reach the competition’s Quarter Finals – and proven ex-Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst wrong in the process.
The North African nation have set up a clash with Portugal in the Qatari quarters and will face the winner of England v France should they successfully overcome the Iberians.
But their presence in the competition’s final eight teams is in of itself a massive achievement with Morocco overcoming a talent strewn – and expensive – Spain team.
The Moroccans held their Spanish counterparts to a 0-0 draw after extra time and went on to win the penalty shoot-out by three to nil.
Whilst Morocco are not without their own talent – Achraf Hakimi of PSG, Hakim Ziyech of Chelsea and Sevilla’s Youssef En-Nesyri the standouts – Spain are a team boasting top players from across the world’s top leagues.
The squad was dominated by Real Madrid, Barcelona and Man City stars, with plenty of top options on the bench from the likes of Chelsea and Atlético Madrid.
Morocco give Rangers boss food for thought after Spain win
In short, given the valuations of both squads on paper Spain should’ve really blown Morocco away but the Atlas Lions continue to impress and were good value for their victory on the night.
Now the nation is dreaming but in the process Morocco have also indirectly left Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst regretting some comments earlier in the season.
The Dutchman claimed that Rangers “can’t compete” with their Champions League counterparts in this year’s competition with the Ibrox side humiliated at Europe’s top table.
A succession of poor results culminated in the worst ever group stage performance by any team and one wonders what might’ve been had Van Bronckhorst offered belief heading into the tournament.
Morocco have no right to be beating Spain, but after also overcoming Belgium and drawing with Croatia in the groups, the nation is proving that anything is possible.
All it takes is a common goal, a clear vision and most importantly, self belief.
Meanwhile, Rangers are still reportedly interested in a target from Gio’s reign.
