Morocco have entered the knockout stage out of the World Cup for the first time in 36 years. Making this game an absolute luxury for the African side. Being the underdogs in majority of their games including the three group stage games – that resulted in them topping the group (unbeaten, W2, D2) with a victory over Belgium and an honourable draw to 2018 finalists Croatia. The lack of pressure on Morocco has clearly worked in their favour scoring 4 goals through the group stage and keeping 2 clean sheets.It clearly wasn’t a fluke either, after making it 10 games unbeaten, keeping 6 clean sheets in their last 7. Whenever Morocco have won (7W, D3) they have scored 2+ goals in each of those wins.As for Spain, they opened their World Cup campaign with an outstanding 7-0 victory over Costa Rica. A performance that made everyone turn their attention to the 2010 winners. But a 1-1 draw to Germany and a 2-1 loss to Japan exposed their weaknesses. They have Germany to thank after they came from behind to beat Costa Rica 4-2. Midway through the second half Luis Enrique’s side were going home along with the Germans!Looking ahead to this game, on paper this should be a Spanish victory with the world class talent they have at their disposal all over the pitch. 2 clean sheets in their last 6 games is a cause for concern.The first quarter of the game is vital for Morocco, as if they can keep Spain at bay they will have every opportunity to cause an upset. Spain have scored in the opening 15 minutes in 3 of their last 4 games, with super sub, Alvaro Morata sparing the Spanish blushes with vital goals.If Spain get an early foothold in this game, then I struggle to see Morocco standing a chance in this one, but as they proven in the group stage, they’ll capable of scoring against ‘the best’.I’m going for a Spanish win in this one, but I do expect to see both sides find the net at some point.Bet Prediction: Spain Win
