Morocco produced one of the crucial dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they fought again from behind to beat the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties in Monterrey and e book their place within the final 16.
The Atlas Lions dominated massive elements of the match however wanted a stoppage-time equaliser from Issa Diop earlier than holding their nerve within the penalty shootout to safe a memorable victory over the Dutch.
Listed below are the important thing moments from Morocco’s well-known win:
Early Battles Set the Tone
The match started at a excessive depth, with each groups engaged in bodily duels throughout the pitch. Morocco’s Ismail Saibari and the Netherlands’ Jan Paul van Hecke had been concerned in a number of fierce battles, whereas Brian Brobbey and Chadi Riad additionally exchanged heavy challenges.
Morocco Create the Higher Possibilities
Morocco seemed the extra harmful aspect throughout the first half. Neil El Aynaoui and Achraf Hakimi, making his one centesimal worldwide look, each examined Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, who produced a number of wonderful saves to maintain the scores stage.
Hakimi Hits the Woodwork
After the break, Morocco elevated the stress and got here near taking the lead when Hakimi struck the crossbar. Regardless of controlling possession, they had been punished moments later.
Emotional Gakpo Provides Netherlands the Lead
Within the 72nd minute, the Netherlands launched a swift counter-attack which ended with Cody Gakpo smashing the ball into the online. The Liverpool ahead, who had just lately revealed the heartbreaking lack of his unborn son, was embraced by his teammates after scoring what seemed to be the successful objective.
Diop’s Dramatic Stoppage-Time Equaliser
Simply when the Netherlands seemed set to advance, Morocco struck within the opening seconds of added time. Issa Diop rose highest to energy dwelling a header from Chemsdine Talbi’s cross, sending Moroccan supporters into celebration and forcing additional time.
Verbruggen Produces Save of the Event
Early in additional time, Bart Verbruggen made a outstanding save to disclaim substitute Soufiane Rahimi, who had dribbled brilliantly via the Dutch defence. It was one of many standout saves of the match.
Penalty Drama
The shootout produced extra twists and turns:
- Teun Koopmeiners scored for the Netherlands.
- Neil El Aynaoui hit the crossbar for Morocco.
- Justin Kluivert struck the publish.
- Soufiane Rahimi’s effort squeezed beneath Verbruggen to stage the shootout.
- Wout Weghorst restored the Dutch benefit.
- Quinten Timber dragged his penalty extensive.
- Achraf Hakimi missed the prospect to place Morocco forward by hitting the publish.
- Dutch substitute Crysencio Summerville was then denied by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Saibari Sends Morocco Via
With the ultimate penalty, Ismail Saibari calmly despatched Verbruggen the improper solution to seal a 3-2 shootout victory and spark wild celebrations among the many Moroccan gamers and followers.
Morocco Proceed Africa’s Historic Run
4 years after reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, Morocco have as soon as once more proven their high quality on the most important stage by eliminating one other European large.
The Atlas Lions, led by coach Mohamed Ouahbi, grow to be the primary African nation to achieve the final 16 on the 2026 World Cup and can now face Canada for a spot within the quarter-finals. Their resilience, expertise and preventing spirit proceed to make them one of many match’s most harmful groups.
