RAMALLAH, June 30, 2026 (WAFA) – The Moroccan national team reached the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup early Tuesday morning with a well-deserved 3-2 penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands, following a 1-1 draw after regulation and extra time.

The Atlas Lions continued to make history at the World Cup, securing their place in the knockout stage where they will face one of the tournament's three host nations, Canada.

The Moroccan team, fourth-place finishers in the 2022 World Cup, proved their worthiness to reach the later stages of the tournament with this victory over the Netherlands, one of the tournament favorites.

The Atlas Lions were capable of securing the win before the penalty shootout, having dominated the match almost entirely during regulation and extra time. Soufiane Rahimi had the best chances of the game.

As usual, the star of the match was goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who shone brightly during the penalty shootout, saving the final penalty kick.

The Netherlands took the lead in the 72nd minute through a powerful shot from inside the penalty area by Kody Kagbo.

Defender Issa Diop equalized for Morocco in the final minute of regulation time with a beautiful header to the left of the Dutch goalkeeper.

In the first period of extra time, Morocco continued their dominance, while the Dutch players sat back. Soufiane Rahimi missed an incredible opportunity after receiving a pass inside the penalty area, dribbling past a defender, and firing a shot that was miraculously saved by the Dutch goalkeeper.

The second period of extra time saw few dangerous attacks on either goal, as both teams appeared physically exhausted after the strenuous effort exerted throughout the match. The game then went to penalties, which Morocco won.

Y.S