Topics: FIFA World Cup, Spain, Morocco, Luis Enrique, Azzedine Ounahi
The head coach of La Roja massively impressed by the young midfielder but refused to address his future following his side's elimination.

Spanish head coach Luis Enrique has lauded Morocco's Azzedine Ounahi for his contribution to his side's defeat on Tuesday. The 22-year-old delivered a monstrous performance to inspire the Atlas Lions to a historic quarter-final berth at the expense of the 2010 world champions.

Following a keenly contested 90 minutes of football action, the clash between Spain and Morocco was forced into extra-time. However, despite both side's persistence to break the deadlock, none of them could register a goal after more than 120 minutes. At the end, it the North Africans carried the day thanks to their goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Pablo Sarabia, Carlos Soler and Sergio Busquets all missed from 12 yards before Achraf Hakimi struck the sweet 'Panenka' to secure a 3-0 penalty shootout victory. Morocco resultantly earned the right to feature in their first-ever World Cup quarter-final, joining Cameroon, Senegal and Ghana as the only African nations to achieve the feat.

In the aftermath of the encounter, head coach of Spain Luis Enrique has singled out Azzedine Ounahi for praise. Speaking to the media in his post-match press conference, the former Barcelona manager revealed that he was awestruck by the performance of the 22-year-old starlet was playing in the third tier of French football just 18 months ago.

"I was pleasantly surprised by the #8, sorry I forget his name," he said.

"Oh my God, where does this guy come from. Plays incredibly well, it surprised me, but he was the only one we weren't aware of."

Meanwhile, Tuesday night's capitulation meant that for the 12th year running, Spain have been unable to go beyond the Round of 16. However, despite the team's failure, Luis Enrique has refused to address his future and insists that he will wait a few days before speaking with the president of the RFEF, Luis Rubiales, to decide the next course of action.

"I can't say anything about my future because I don't know. It's not the moment, either.

"My contract is up but I am happy with the president and (sporting director) Molina and, if it was up to me and the affection I have received, I would continue for my entire life, but it's not the case. I have to think what is best, for the national team and for Luis Enrique."