Morocco stun Netherlands on penalties to book World Cup last-16 clash with Canada

Morocco produced another famous World Cup upset after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties to secure a place in the last 16 following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

The Atlas Lions repeated their heroics from the 2022 tournament, where they eliminated Spain in a penalty shootout, as goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and the Moroccan spot-kick takers held their nerve once again.

Late equaliser forces extra time

Morocco created the better opportunities during the opening half but were repeatedly denied by Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, who made two outstanding saves in quick succession.

The Netherlands eventually broke the deadlock through Cody Gakpo and looked on course for victory until Morocco struck in the opening minute of stoppage time. Mouhamadou Diop rose highest to head home a dramatic equaliser and send the contest into extra time.

Neither side managed to find a winner during the additional 30 minutes, although Morocco came closest when Rahmi was denied by another sharp save from Verbruggen.

Morocco keep cool from the spot

The Dutch opened the shootout successfully through Teun Koopmeiners, but their hopes quickly faded as Justin Kluivert and Jurrien Timber failed to convert, while Bounou also saved Crysencio Summerville’s effort.

That left Abdelhamid Saibari with the opportunity to seal qualification, and the forward calmly converted the decisive penalty to spark jubilant celebrations among the Moroccan players and supporters.

The victory sends Morocco into the last 16, where they will face co-hosts Canada in Houston on July 4.

For the Netherlands, the defeat extends their wait for a World Cup title, with another campaign ending in disappointment.