Morocco's Penalty Shootout Record: The Spot-Kick Kings of 2022
The Spain Shootout of 2022
After 120 goalless minutes against Spain in the round of 16, the tie went to penalties. It became one of the defining moments of the tournament and of Moroccan football history.
Yassine Bounou saved two of Spain's kicks while Spain also missed the target, and Achraf Hakimi sealed it with an audacious Panenka down the middle. Morocco won 3-0 on penalties, sending Spain home and Morocco into the quarterfinals.
Why Goalkeeping Was Decisive
Bounou's performance was the difference. His ability to read the takers and stay big in his goal turned the shootout from a coin-flip into a Moroccan advantage, underlining how a top goalkeeper can win knockout football.
Spain, by contrast, missed all three of their attempts. The contrast highlighted Morocco's composure and preparation, with reports that the staff had studied opponents' penalty tendencies in detail.
Hakimi's Panenka
The image of Hakimi chipping a calm Panenka past the Spanish goalkeeper to win the tie became iconic. For a Madrid-born player to eliminate Spain in that fashion added a layer of drama and symbolism.
It was the kind of ice-cold confidence that defines great tournament teams, and it announced Morocco as a side that thrives rather than crumbles under maximum pressure.
What It Means Going Into 2026
Shootouts are increasingly likely deep in knockout rounds, and Morocco's 2022 experience gives them a psychological edge. With Bounou likely still in goal, they enter any shootout believing they will win.
Penalties remain a lottery, but preparation, a calm goalkeeper, and confident takers tilt the odds. Morocco have all three, making them a team few opponents want to face if a match goes the distance.
| Detail | Result |
|---|---|
| Score after extra time | 0-0 |
| Penalty shootout result | Morocco 3-0 Spain |
| Bounou saves | Two |
| Spain conversions | Zero |
| Winning penalty | Hakimi Panenka |
Morocco's famous 2022 shootout vs Spain
FAQ
Did Morocco beat Spain on penalties in 2022?
Yes. Morocco won 3-0 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in the round of 16, with Yassine Bounou making two saves and Spain missing all three attempts.
Who scored the winning penalty for Morocco against Spain?
Achraf Hakimi converted the decisive spot-kick with a cheeky Panenka chip down the middle.
Why are Morocco strong in penalty shootouts?
A world-class goalkeeper in Yassine Bounou, careful preparation studying opponents, and confident takers give Morocco a real edge in shootouts.
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