Morocco secured a dramatic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in Guadalupe, Mexico.
The match was tightly contested, with both teams creating limited clear chances. The Netherlands took the lead in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo scored after a fine assist from Crysencio Summerville. The goal gave the Dutch side hope of advancing, but Morocco refused to give up.
In stoppage time, Morocco found their equaliser through Issa Diop, who headed in a cross from Chemsdine Talbi to force extra time. Neither side could find another goal during the additional 30 minutes, sending the game into penalties.
The shootout remained level at 2-2 after four attempts before Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced a crucial save to deny Summerville. Ismael Saibari then calmly converted the decisive penalty to send Morocco through.
Morocco, who made history by reaching the 2022 World Cup semifinals, will now face Canada in the Round of 16 in Houston.
The defeat ended the Netherlands’ tournament at the earliest knockout stage in their World Cup history. The Dutch had previously reached at least the Round of 16 in eight appearances, including a quarterfinal run in the 2022 edition.
Morocco’s resilience and composure under pressure helped them secure one of the biggest wins of the knockout rounds so far.
