Fans think Hakimi celebration was tribute to Ramos after Spain World Cup snub

The 24-year-old then pulled off an interesting waddle celebration after the spot-kick, with fans now believing it is linked to his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Sergio Ramos.

Advertisement

Despite being one of their most experienced centre-backs, Ramos was a controversial exclusion from Spain's squad for the World Cup in Qatar.

Hakimi's penalty sent the 2010 winners home in the Round of 16 for the second consecutive tournament, but the Moroccan's celebration appears to have been a tribute to the veteran centre-back.

The waddle is nothing new, as fans have pointed out that Hakimi and Ramos have both previously acted like penguins together after a PSG goal, with the duo clearly having a strong relationship on the pitch.

Advertisement

This is also the case off it, with Hakimi praising the decorated footballer in a tweet last month when he said: "Sergio Ramos Best defend in the world."

Ramos has been a rock at the back for the French giants this season, having not lost a single game in 20 appearances across all competitions.

Spain may have well have gone further at the World Cup with his qualities and experience, but it was Morocco who stole the limelight on a another dramatic night in Qatar.

Advertisement

Advertisement

After a 0-0 draw that saw Spain dominate in terms of chances and possession, spot-kicks were needed to decide who progresses to the last-eight.

The Spanish did not score a single one of their efforts, with two of them being saved by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and the other hitting the post.

Morocco netted three of their four penalties, with Hakimi's 'Panenka' sensationally sending them through to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

The North African outfit's opponents will be Portugal, who thrashed Switzerland 6-1 on Tuesday night.

Advertisement