Iran and Morocco have departed the World Cup to a chorus of praise after they produced thrilling performances to take heavyweights Portugal and Spain to the wire in the final round of Group B games.
Both Iran and Morocco teams played a full part in a sensational climax to Group B before settling for draws in their respective games against Portugal and Spain.
Morocco already knew their they were eliminated going into their final game against Spain in Kaliningrad, but that did not stop them from producing a thrilling display that saw them set for victory until Iago Aspas scored an injury time equalizer.
The plaudits poured in for a team that departed Russia with 1 point from three games but with praise ringing in their ears for a brave display of attacking verve.
Loved watching Morocco and Iran. So enjoyable and took it to the bigger teams on the last day. I'll miss them.
— Zito (@_Zeets) June 25, 2018
How did Morocco finish bottom with 1 point,been one of the best teams in this tournament,bossed first 2 games with no reward #WorldCup18
— Ian ninky Mckinnon (@ninky1910) June 25, 2018
Iran faced Portugal in Saransk and ran Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. mightily close after coming from behind to equalize and almost snatching a dramatic win that would have seen them qualify for the last 16, before ultimately having to settle for 1-1.
READ MORE: Portugal 1-1 Iran: Late penalty snatches 1st place from Ronaldo in dramatic climax
Iranians and fans of the team showed their pride on social media after the game.
Iran can be EXTREMELY proud of their World Cup campaign. Narrowly lost to Spain, beat Morocco and came mighty close to knocking out Portugal tonight. They've given absolutely everything, as have their fans 🇮🇷
— TalkFCB (@FCBNewsRoom) June 25, 2018
Very happy with the football played. Proud of these guys and their effort! @TeamMelliIran Heads up, no shame.
— kenshō (@gxdarz) June 25, 2018
Credit to Iran who gave everything against Spain and Portugal, they can leave with their heads up high 👏🏻👏🏻 #iran #worldcup
— Darren Taylor (@DarrenT_dj1) June 25, 2018
Both Iran and Morocco played with a vigor that belied their underdog status against their more fancied opponents, and many felt they even better their European rivals with the football they showed.
Spain and Portugal win the group, but the real heroes are Morocco and Iran. Both teams played much more inspiring football than these two European giants. Sad that we have to wait another four years before seeing them play again in the World Cup. Bravo! 🇮🇷🇲🇦👏
— Conor McCormick (@ConorMichael28) June 25, 2018
Fair play Morocco and Iran. Made a group many would have considered a procession other than a battle for first one of the most engaging of the World Cup. Morocco deserved more in every match.
— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) June 25, 2018
Iran and Morocco: you went against two of the best teams in the world and played with such honor and passion. Never underestimate.
— Teymour (@Teymour_Ashkan) June 25, 2018
Spain topped the group thanks to their draw, setting up a last 16 tie against hosts Russia on July 1 in Moscow, while Portugal’s draw means they face Group A winners Uruguay in Sochi on June 30.
