Morocco Edge Netherlands in Penalty Shootout After Late Equalizer
June 30, 2026 · By yayscore Newsroom
Updated:
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Morocco advanced to the World Cup Quarter-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout win against the Netherlands, who had initially taken the lead in the second half.
The Round of 32 clash saw a dramatic turn of events as Morocco stunned the Netherlands in a penalty shootout, securing their spot in the next knockout round. The match remained goalless for much of normal time, with both teams struggling to break the deadlock despite Morocco dominating possession throughout the game (70%).
The deadlock was finally broken in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo put the Netherlands ahead, seemingly putting them on course for qualification. However, Morocco responded with fierce determination, and in injury time (90'+1'), Ibrahima Diop netted a crucial equalizer, sending the game into extra time. The Netherlands then missed three out of four penalties, while Morocco secured their progression in the shootout with goals from S. Rahimi and C. Talbi after N. El Aynaoui and A. Hakimi missed.
The turning point came with Diop's late equalizer, which shifted momentum firmly in Morocco's favor and brought renewed energy to their side. This dramatic comeback and penalty shootout victory mean Morocco progresses to the Quarter-finals, eliminating the Netherlands from the tournament. For the Dutch, it's a bitter exit after coming so close to advancing.