Morocco booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging past the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 clash.
The Netherlands looked to be heading through after taking the lead and controlling large spells of the contest, but Morocco refused to give in. As the game entered stoppage time, the Atlas Lions found their breakthrough through Issa Diop, whose late equaliser forced extra time and kept Moroccan hopes alive.
Neither side could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes despite several tense moments, sending the game to penalties where Morocco once again showed their composure from the spot.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved decisive yet again, making a crucial save in the shootout before Ismael Saibari calmly converted the winning penalty to send Morocco through.
It was another display of resilience and belief from Morocco, who continue to build on their growing reputation on the world stage.
They now set up a Round of 16 clash against Canada, while the Netherlands bow out in heartbreaking fashion after letting victory slip away at the very end.
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Story by Samuel Annang|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
