Morocco secure dramatic victory

By Isla Hartley · Sports Reporter · June 30, 2026

By Isla Hartley — 30 June 2026 — 3 min read

Morocco secure dramatic victory

Morocco have advanced to the World Cup last 16 after defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout. The match, held in Monterrey, Mexico, concluded 1-1 after extra time, with Morocco ultimately triumphing 3-2 in the shootout. This victory sets up a last-16 clash with Canada.

The game saw Cody Gakpo give the Netherlands the lead in the 72nd minute. His goal followed a break from Crysencio Summerville. Gakpo’s celebration was notably emotional, as he and his partner had recently announced the tragic loss of their unborn son. He was seen tearful and pointing to the sky, comforted by teammate Denzel Dumfries.

However, Morocco found an equaliser in the 90th minute. Substitute Chemsdine Talbi delivered a cross that Issa Diop headed in, sending the match into extra time. This late goal visibly impacted the Netherlands, who had been minutes away from securing a win in regular time.

Tactical decisions and missed opportunities

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman‘s tactical approach came under scrutiny following the match. Despite his team scoring seven goals against Sweden and Japan, and three against Tunisia in the group stages, Koeman opted for a five-man backline against Morocco, deviating from the standard 4-3-3 formation. This strategy resulted in a cautious display, with Morocco dominating possession with 70%.

Koeman defended his tactics, stating that Morocco represented a different level of opponent. The Netherlands did not pose a significant threat until shortly before half-time, when Micky van de Ven‘s shot was saved by Yassine Bounou. Earlier, Bart Verbruggen, the Dutch goalkeeper, had already made crucial saves.

The match was marked by a contentious atmosphere from the start, with numerous challenges. Jan Paul van Hecke was involved in several incidents during the opening period. Local supporters in the stands also contributed to the tension, reminding the Netherlands of a past event involving a late penalty against Mexico 12 years ago.

During extra time, Morocco created the best chance when Soufiane Rahimi was denied by a brilliant save from Verbruggen. This save was described as potentially the save of the tournament. Despite this, Verbruggen could not replicate his heroics in the penalty shootout.

Penalty shootout drama

The penalty shootout proved to be a test of nerve. Both teams missed opportunities, but Morocco ultimately prevailed 3-2. Yassine Bounou, who was also a hero in a previous shootout against Spain in 2022, saved Crysencio Summerville‘s penalty. Ismael Saibari then scored the decisive penalty for Morocco, securing their place in the next round.

Quinten Timber of the Netherlands missed his penalty, sending it wide, and Achraf Hakimi hit the post for Morocco. The shootout saw Verbruggen seemingly save Rahimi‘s penalty. Morocco‘s victory means they will now face Canada in the last 16.

Ronald Koeman was asked about his future as the Netherlands head coach. He indicated that he would address the matter starting the next day, but that it was not the right moment to discuss it immediately after the defeat. Noussair Mazraoui, a Morocco defender, described the win as a significant acknowledgment for their national team against a strong opponent.

The Netherlands‘ exit marks a disappointing end to their World Cup campaign, failing to reach the last 16.

Source: theguardian.com

Isla Hartley

Sports Reporter

Isla Hartley is a Sports Reporter at NewsUK. She covered the British summer of sport from Wimbledon to the Test grounds. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sports Studies from the University of Stirling and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Glasgow, she runs half-marathons and follows Scottish athletics. “The overlooked athlete usually has the better story.”