Morocco has secured a historic spot in the Round of 16, marking the first time an African team has advanced this far in the 2026 World Cup. The Atlas Lions triumphed over The Netherlands following a tense penalty shoot-out that ended 3-2, after both sides remained deadlocked at 1-1 through extra time.
The Dutch side drew first blood in the 72nd minute. After Crysencio Summerville was brought down by Mazraoui, Cody Gakpo capitalized on the loose ball to find the back of the net. However, Morocco responded with resilience when Issa Diop leveled the score with a powerful header.
The penalty phase proved fatal for the Dutch, as Quentin Timber, Crysencio Summerville, and Justin Kluivert all failed to convert their attempts, leading to the team’s exit. Morocco now prepares to challenge co-hosts Canada for a ticket to the quarter-finals.
