Morocco Hold Nerve in Shootout as Netherlands Exit World Cup

Morocco are through to the World Cup round of 16 after beating the Netherlands on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot kick after Yassine Bounou had denied Crysencio Summerville in the shootout.

The Netherlands had moved ahead in the 72nd minute through Cody Gakpo, assisted by Summerville, but Morocco forced the game beyond normal time when Issa Diop headed in Chemsdine Talbi’s delivery in the 91st minute.

Extra time produced few clear openings, although Soufiane Rahimi came close to winning it for Morocco before Bart Verbruggen kept the Dutch alive. The match was ultimately decided from the spot, where Morocco’s composure carried them through.

Morocco will next face Canada in Houston on Saturday. For the Netherlands, the defeat ends a campaign earlier than their recent World Cup history would suggest, while Morocco continue their attempt to build on the momentum of their 2022 semifinal run.