Morocco eliminates Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup Round of 16

Morocco staged a dramatic comeback to eliminate the Netherlands from the 2026 World Cup, securing a 3-2 penalty shootout victory after a tense 1-1 draw.

The match, held in Monterrey, Mexico, saw Morocco grow into the game after a cautious start. Despite early chances for the North Africans, including shots from Ayyoub Bouaddi and Achraf Hakimi, Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen made crucial saves. The Netherlands also threatened, with Micky van de Ven's shot saved by Yassine Bounou before halftime.

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Morocco came close to taking the lead early in the second half when Hakimi hit the crossbar. However, against the run of play, Cody Gakpo put the Netherlands ahead in the 72nd minute. Undeterred, Morocco pushed for an equalizer, and Chemsdine Talbi provided an assist for Issa Diop to head home in the 90+1 minute, forcing extra time.

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In extra time, Verbruggen again denied Morocco with a close-range save from Soufiam Rahimi. The match ultimately went to penalties, where Morocco held their nerve to win 3-2. Ismael Saibari scored the decisive penalty for the Atlas Lions.

Morocco's victory sets up a Round of 16 clash against Canada on July 4 in Houston.

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