Morocco eliminates Netherlands in penalty shootout, advances to face Canada in World Cup 2026 Round of 16
via SeneNews1 min read
Morocco has dramatically qualified for the Round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup, eliminating the Netherlands after a thrilling penalty shootout. The Moroccan team, led by Yassine Bounou, is now set to face Canada in a decisive match. Morocco secured their qualification in a hard-fought battle, winning 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra time against the Netherlands on Monday in Monterrey. A crucial save by Yassine Bounou, followed by a successful attempt from Ismael Saibari, sealed the victory for the Moroccans, who had been close to elimination despite dominating much of the match. They equalized in stoppage time through Issa Diop, responding to Cody Gakpo's opening goal for the Netherlands in the 72nd minute. Gakpo was visibly emotional, having recently announced his partner's miscarriage.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Morocco demonstrated resilience in their match against the Netherlands, securing an equalizer thanks to a goal from Issa Diop in the 90th minute. This goal revitalizes the Atlas Lions' hopes for qualification to the next round. Despite trailing after Cody Gakpo's opening goal, Morocco pushed until the final moments of the round of 16 match. Valentin Rongier, who entered the game shortly before, helped maintain pressure, leading to Diop's goal that leveled the score. The equalizer sparked celebrations in the Moroccan camp, rewarding a courageous performance by Mohamed Ouahbi's team, who had dominated much of the game despite being behind. The final minutes of the match, played in Monterrey, are expected to be intense.
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