Morocco through to World Cup Round of 16 after dramatic shootout win over Netherlands

Morocco booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties on Monday night at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico, following a dramatic 1-1 draw after extra time.

After a tightly contested and hard-fought encounter, the deadlock was broken in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo gave the Netherlands the lead. Just as the Dutch looked set to advance, Morocco produced a dramatic late response, with Issa Diop finding the equalizer in the first minute of stoppage time to force extra time.

Neither side was able to find a winner during the additional 30 minutes, sending the match to a penalty shootout. The Atlas Lions held their nerve from the spot, prevailing 3-2 to secure their place in the last 16.

Morocco will now continue their World Cup campaign in the Round of 16, after overcoming one of the tournament's most anticipated knockout ties.