Morocco booked their place in the Round of 16 oopeningf the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a gripping 1-1 draw that produced drama until the very end.
The Atlas Lions looked destined for elimination after Cody Gakpo fired the Netherlands ahead in the 72nd minute from a C. Summerville assist. Despite dominating possession for much of the contest, Morocco struggled to find a breakthrough as the Dutch edged closer to qualification.
However, just when hope seemed to be fading, Morocco found their hero. Issa Diop rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross from C. Talbi, heading home in the first minute of stoppage time to level the score at 1-1 and send the match into extra time.
Neither side could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes, setting up a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
The shootout was packed with tension from the kick. Morocco goalkeeper and the woodwork combined to frustrate the Dutch as Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and C. Summerville all failed to convert. Morocco also stumbled when N. El Aynaoui and Achraf Hakimi missed, but successful penalties from Soufiane Rahimi, C. Talbi and the decisive Ismael Saibari sealed a dramatic 3-2 shootout triumph.
It was a heartbreaking exit for the Netherlands, who had one foot in the next round before Diop’s late equaliser changed the course of the contest. For Morocco, it was a night of resilience, belief and composure under immense pressure, with the Atlas Lions completing a remarkable comeback to continue their World Cup journey.
