2026 World Cup: Issa Diop named man of the match for his performance against the Netherlands

Morocco defender Issa Diop was named Player of the Match after the Atlas Lions' dramatic 1-1 draw with the Netherlands, before securing a 3-2 penalty shootout victory on Monday night in Monterrey to reach the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Diop rescued Morocco deep into stoppage time, heading home in the first minute of added time (90+1) just as the Netherlands looked set to book their place in the next round. Rising above the Dutch defense to meet a perfectly delivered cross, the center-back's late equalizer sparked jubilant celebrations among the Moroccan players and supporters.

The decisive goal capped an outstanding all-round display from Diop, who impressed throughout the match with his defensive solidity, aerial dominance and composure under pressure, emerging as one of the standout performers in a fiercely contested encounter.

Inspired by the late equalizer, Morocco went on to prevail 3-2 in the penalty shootout, sealing a place in the Round of 16.

Diop's heroic performance earned him the Player of the Match award, capping a memorable night for both the defender and the Atlas Lions.