World Cup 2022: Morocco and Spain Set for Historic Clash in Round of 16

Morocco and Spain had played two friendly matches. The first took place on May 15, 1960 in Casablanca and ended in a draw (3-3). The second took place a few weeks later in Granada and resulted in a narrow victory for Spain (4-3). The two countries also faced each other in November 1961 in home and away matches for qualification for the 1962 World Cup in Chile, reports Marca.

During the away match in Casablanca on November 12, 1961, a Spanish goal was disputed by Moroccan players who signaled an offside. During this situation, a supporter came down from the stands before going onto the field, forcing the referee to suspend the match. Upon resumption, and at the insistence of the Moroccans, the referee went to consult the line and ultimately disallowed the goal. The score remained goalless until almost the end of the match before Spain scored a goal on a penalty.

With the victory in Casablanca, Spain had the advantage for the return leg which took place at Chamartín. It scored two goals and Morocco came back and equalized. At the final whistle, the score was 3-2 in favor of Spain, which had thus obtained its ticket for the World Cup in Chile.