Morocco Knock Out Netherlands on Penalties to March into World Cup Last 16

Morocco booked their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after edging the Netherlands 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in Monterrey.

The North Africans, who controlled large spells of the contest, were forced to come from behind before prevailing from the spot to set up a last-16 meeting with Canada.

Despite Morocco’s dominance for much of the encounter, the Dutch appeared destined for victory when Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock 18 minutes from time, finishing off a swift counter-attack to cap an emotional appearance following the recent loss of his unborn son.

The Netherlands had spent much of the game under pressure, with goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen producing a string of outstanding saves to keep Morocco at bay. Achraf Hakimi, celebrating his 100th international appearance, repeatedly threatened, while efforts from Neil El Aynaoui and Hakimi himself were denied by the Brighton shot-stopper.

Morocco continued to press after falling behind and finally found the breakthrough in stoppage time when Issa Diop powered home a header from Chemsdine Taldi’s inviting cross, forcing the contest into extra time.

Both teams created chances in the additional 30 minutes, but neither could find a decisive goal. Verbruggen produced another remarkable save to deny substitute Soufiane Rahimi, while Noussair Mazraoui made a crucial late tackle to prevent Crysencio Summerville from restoring the Dutch advantage.

The tie was eventually settled on penalties, where both sides faltered from the spot.

Teun Koopmeiners converted the opening kick for the Netherlands before El Aynaoui struck the crossbar. Justin Kluivert hit the post, Rahimi restored parity, and Wout Weghorst calmly found the top corner. Quinten Timber then fired wide before Hakimi also hit the upright.

With the scores still level, Summerville’s effort was saved by Yassine Bounou, leaving Ismail Saibari to calmly convert the decisive penalty and seal a memorable victory for Morocco.

The defeat ended the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign, while Morocco advanced to the knockout stage with growing belief after another impressive display against one of Europe’s traditional football powers.

Morocco will now face Canada in Houston on Saturday for a place in the quarter-finals.

Credit: BBC Sports