Morocco through to World Cup round of 16 with shootout win over Netherlands

Morocco came from behind to knock the Netherlands out in the round of 32, beating them 3-2 on penalties.

Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Round of 32 - Netherlands v Morocco - Estadio Monterrey, Monterrey, Mexico - June 29, 2026 Morocco's Ismael Saibari celebrates after scoring the winning penalty in the penalty shootout REUTERS/Daniel Becerril — Morocco's Ismael Saibari celebrates after scoring the winning penalty in the penalty shootout [Daniel Becerril/Reuters]

Morocco beat the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout on Monday, knocking the Dutch out of the 2026 World Cup in the round of 32.

After a stoppage-time goal by Morocco’s Issa Diop cancelled out Cody Gakpo’s opener for the Netherlands, the teams were forced into extra time in Monterrey, followed by a dramatic shootout.

Following a series of saves and misses, star striker Ismael Saibari scored the winning spot-kick for Morocco, who will face Canada in the round of 16.

More to follow…