Morocco caused a sensation by knocking the Netherlands out of the 2026 World Cup on penalties
The Moroccan national team beat the Netherlands in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup and progressed to the next round of the tournament.
The match at the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, ended in a 1–1 draw after normal and extra time. In the penalty shoot-out, the Moroccans proved the stronger side, winning 3–2.
For most of the match, neither side could break the deadlock. The Dutch were the first to score. In the 72nd minute, Cody Gakpo finished neatly after a pass from Crisencio Summerville.
Ronald Koeman’s side were on the verge of victory, but Morocco snatched a draw in stoppage time. In the 90+1st minute, Issa Diop headed home a cross from the left flank by Chemsdin Talbi from the centre of the penalty area to level the score.
Neither side scored in extra time, so the fate of the place in the round of 16 was decided in a penalty shoot-out.
The Netherlands converted only two of their five penalties. Morocco scored three times from the spot to secure their place in the next round of the tournament.
In the round of 16, Morocco will face Canada, who beat South Africa 1–0 in the round of 32.
The Canada v Morocco match will take place on 4 July. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 Kyiv time.
The 2026 World Cup is taking place from 11 June to 19 July in the USA, Mexico and Canada. This is the first World Cup to feature 48 national teams, a record number in the tournament’s history.
