Atlas Lions eliminate Netherlands on penalties to reach the quarter-finals
Morocco eliminated the Netherlands on penalties (1-1 a.e.t.) to advance to the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup in a dramatic match in Monterrey.
Morocco produced a stunning display of resilience to eliminate the Netherlands on penalties (1-1 a.e.t.) at the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, booking their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
Gakpo strikes, Diop rescues Morocco
Cody Gakpo put the Dutch in front at the 72nd minute with a composed finish, adding to his World Cup tally. Morocco looked set for elimination until Issa Diop scrambled in an equaliser at the 91st minute to send the match to extra time.
Bounou the hero, Saibari seals it
Neither side could break the deadlock in extra time. In the penalty shootout, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved Summerville's effort to keep Morocco alive, before Ismaël Saibari coolly slotted home the winning penalty to send the Atlas Lions into the last eight.
Morocco march on
Morocco continue their impressive run at the 2026 World Cup, proving once again that African football is firmly on the world stage. The Atlas Lions will be a difficult opponent for whoever they face in the quarter-finals.
