Morocco hero Amrabat endured 3am injection from physio to ensure he was fit for Spain World Cup last-16 upset

• Amrabat took injections to face Spain
• Up until 3am with physio
• Instrumental in eventual Morocco win

WHAT HAPPENED? Amrabat continued his exceptional form for Morocco as they turned a goalless draw in the World Cup last 16 into a 3-0 penalty shootout victory over Spain, booking their spot in the quarter-final. But the industrious midfielder revealed post-match that he had to go to extreme lengths to ensure he was fit to play.

WHAT HE SAID: He revealed after the game: "I am very emotional. It was a question whether I could play this game. Last night I stayed up until 3am with the physio, an injection before the game too. I can't abandon the guys and my country."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Fiorentina's Amrabat has been one of several shining stars in Morocco's World Cup squad. The 26-year-old has been key in their midfield and helped them to the quarter-final of the tournament for the first time in the nation's history. In doing so, they've also become just the fourth African side to reach the last eight.
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WHAT NEXT FOR MOROCCO? Walid Regragui's side now have all eyes on their quarter-final tie with Portugal on December 10.