Prediction: Morocco vs Spain

Prediction: Draw (Morocco on pens)

Best Odds: 11/4

Bookmaker: 888sport

The FIFA World Cup has officially concluded its group stage as the knockouts continue on through the week. A whole host of countries are expected to shine with the lights on bright but, in reality, this is where pressure and quality collide in the most extraordinary of ways. Today, we’ll take a look at what should be an intriguing battle between neighbouring countries Morocco and Spain.

Morocco

Morocco have been one of the surprise packages of the World Cup so far. Everything from their fans to their style of play to the results they’ve been getting has been exemplary. They are going to be viewed as the underdogs in this game because of the gulf in experience at the elite level but if they can get things moving in the first 15 or 20 minutes, there’s a good chance they can go far.

Team News

Morocco have no major injury or suspension concerns and should come into this game with their est starting XI.

Spain

The 2010 world champions looked good in their first game against Costa Rica but they haven’t been able to follow up on that – not substantially, at least. Alas, if the Euros proved anything last year, it’s that underestimating this squad is never a wise idea. The Spanish can beat anyone on the planet when they play to their very best and we’re pretty excited to see if that comes out tomorrow.

Team News

Spain have no major injury or suspension concerns and should come into this game with their est starting XI.

Factors to Consider

• The winner will play Portugal or Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
• Morocco have won two and drawn one of their games so far.
• Spain have won one, drawn one and lost one of their games so far.
• Morocco have scored four goals and conceded one at the World Cup.
• Spain have scored nine goals and conceded three at the World Cup.

Conclusion

This is a really interesting collision between two nations who we suspect will have differing levels of confidence heading into this encounter. Morocco have both a solid defensive structure and some fun attacking options, whereas Spain really are quite special once they turn it on. Alas, this is a tournament of upsets, which is why we’re favouring a 1-1 draw before Morocco pinch it on penalties.

Prediction: Draw (Morocco on pens)

Best Odds: 11/4

Bookmaker: 888sport