The 2022 World Cup has belonged to the minnows thus far, owing to a number of shocking upsets.
Some of the biggest Footballing nations of the world have been toppled by the unlikeliest of candidates, and yesterday saw another such upset.
Spain, touted by many to progress deep into the tournament, took on a determined Morocco, who had topped their group and stunned Belgium in the process.
Considering the talents in Spain’s ranks and their historic pedigree at the World Cup, the odds were stacked in La Roja’s favor. But once the whistle blew, all the context was out the window.
The Atlas Lions laid out an excellent mid-block, inviting pressure while frustrating Spain and finding joy on the counters.
Morocco managed to retain immense focus for 120 minutes and prevented Spain from scoring, and they eventually won it through a tense penalty shootout.
While every member of their side was instrumental to their achievement, a few players were simply essential, and among them was Sofyan Amrabat.
The Fiorentina midfielder has quietly enjoyed a solid season in club colors, and his form has extended to the World Cup as well.
Out of all his displays in the World Cup, his performance against Spain is almost certainly going down in folklore, the 26-year-old was imperious on the night.
Playing at the heart of Morocco’s midfield, he was tasked with organizing a stubborn mid-block and keeping an eye on the talented duo of Pedri and Gavi, who typically look to slip in between the lines.
He did his duties to near perfection, and across 120 minutes, Amrabat won all his ground duels (7/7) and also succeeded in all attempted tackles (4/4).
Coupled with the efforts of his midfield partners, the renowned Spanish trio of Sergio Busquets, Gavi and Pedri looked toothless.
It was truly a job well done for Amrabat and boy does he know it.
After full-time, he went into spam mode on Instagram and shared many images and posts about his performance.
The 26-year-old also didn’t shy away from sharing a couple of hilarious memes, all of which suggested the same thing.
Amrabat had Spain in his pocket.
The 2 that stood include this edit of Amrabat with Gavi hanging on his back, hunter and prey style.
And the other was a spin on the famous ‘Terry Crews triple headlock’, with Amrabat filling in for Crews, and his victims being the entire Spanish midfield.
We reckon he really enjoyedthat performance, and rightly so.
