TheCable

The Atlas Lions of Morocco stunned Spain, the 2010 FIFA World Cup champions, to reach their first-ever quarter-finals of football’s most prestigious tournament currently ongoing in Qatar.

On Tuesday, Morocco defeated the European giants on penalty kicks to advance to the final 8 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

With the victory, Morocco became the fourth African nation to qualify for the quarter-finals in the FIFA World Cup history after Cameroon, Senegal, and Ghana achieved similar feats in 1990, 2002, and 2010 respectively.

Here are three major talking points from Day 18.

Bounou takes centre stage

The spotlight has always been on the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi at the Mundial. But on Tuesday, Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bonou chose the right time to be in the limelight.

Following a goalless draw, Morocco edged their European opponents 3-0 at penalty shootouts.

While Pablo Sarabia hit the post with Spain’s first spot-kick, other penalty takers Carlos Soler and Sergio Busquets had their shots saved by Bounou before Spanish-born Hakimi scored the decisive spot-kick.

Time for Ronaldo to take a bow

Much has been said about the on and off-field activities of Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo. He didn’t start in the demolition of Switzerland. The former Real Madrid man did little when he came off the bench as Portugal won 6-1. Ronaldo should at this point consider throwing in the towel.

Portugal have a new Sheriff in Ramos

Goncalo Ramos netted a magnificent hat-trick after being named as Ronaldo’s shock replacement to inspire Portugal to a 6-1 World Cup romp against Switzerland.

Portugal boss Fernando Santos sprung a huge surprise by leaving the leading goalscorer in the history of international football on the bench, while a 21-year-old — who is making his first international start — promptly stole the show and booked a quarter-final spot for the European giants.