Morocco eliminates Netherlands in 2026 World Cup round of 16 qualification

Morocco qualified for the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout. The match ended 1-1 after regular time and extra time, with Cody Gakpo scoring for the Netherlands and Morocco finding an equalizer in stoppage time. Throughout the match, Morocco demonstrated superior offensive initiative, forcing Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen to make several critical saves. The penalty shootout was intense, featuring multiple misses from both sides, but Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made the decisive save against Crysencio Summerville. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Moroccan team, which will now face Canada in the next stage of the tournament. The match was characterized by high physical intensity, particularly during the first 20 minutes of play.