Morocco became Africa’s sole remaining representative at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey to book a place in the Round of 16.
The victory came as a huge relief for the continent after South Africa were eliminated by co-hosts Canada in the opening knockout match on Sunday.
The Netherlands appeared destined for victory when Cody Gakpo fired them ahead midway through the second half, putting the Dutch on course to send another African nation out of the tournament.
However, Morocco struck deep into stoppage time as Issa Diop rose unmarked to head home from substitute Chemsdine Talbi’s cross, forcing the contest into extra time.
Neither side could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes, sending the match to a penalty shootout.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero, producing a decisive save to deny Crysencio Summerville from the Netherlands’ fifth penalty before Ismael Saibari calmly converted the winning spot-kick to secure a 3-2 shootout victory for the Atlas Lions.
The win sets up a Round of 16 showdown with co-hosts Canada in Houston on Saturday.
Gakpo’s goal carried added emotional significance, coming just days after his partner confirmed the heartbreaking loss of the couple’s unborn son. The Liverpool forward collapsed to the turf in tears after scoring and was comforted by his teammates in an emotional celebration.
