KALININGRAD, Russia (Reuters) – Substitute Iago Aspas struck in stoppage-time to earn Spain a dramatic 2-2 draw with Morocco on Monday which gave them top spot in World Cup Group B and a place in the last 16.
With Morocco heading toward their first win of the tournament, Aspas cleverly back-heeled the ball into the net to cancel out Youssef En-Nesyri’s brilliant 81st-minute header for Morocco.
The Spanish equalizer was originally ruled out for offside but awarded after a lengthy review by the Video Assistant Referee amid chaotic scenes on the pitch.
Spain took top spot from Portugal on goals scored after the European champions were held to a 1-1 draw by Iran who equalized in stoppage-time.
“There was a lot of uncertainty, we didn’t know we had finished top until some team mates told me,” Aspas said. “The important thing is that we are through and finished top of the group.
“Everyone would have taken finishing top of the group when the draw was made, then you have to think about everything that has happened (referring to the sacking of coach Julen Lopetegui), but we have just focused on working hard.”
Spain will play Russia in the last 16.
