- By Samannay Sen
- Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:07 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
- Morocco looked the sharper team for much of the contest.
- Extra time belonged largely to Morocco.
Morocco produced yet another unforgettable FIFA World Cup moment as Ismael Saibari held his nerve from the penalty spot to knock out the Netherlands after a dramatic Round of 32 clash that finished 1-1 after extra time. The Atlas Lions eventually triumphed 3-2 in the shootout to book their place in the Round of 16, where they will face Canada.
In what was called one of the biggest knockout ties of the tournament, neither side managed to dominate proceedings for extended periods. Morocco national football team looked like the sharper team for much of the contest. Still, the Dutch struck first through Cody Gakpo before the AFCON champions produced another hallmark late comeback to keep their World Cup dream alive.
The first goal came in the 72nd minute when Crysencio Summerville gave a clever pass to Cody Gakpo, who calmly finished to put Ronald Koeman's side ahead. Everyone thought that the road to the Round of 16 was clear. The goal carried extra emotion as Gakpo celebrated through tears following recent personal tragedy.
Just when it appeared the Oranje had done enough, the Atlas Lions found another response. Deep into stoppage time, Chemsdine Talbi delivered in a teasing cross that Issa Diop met with a brilliant header to send the Morocco fans into delight and force extra time.
Extra time belonged largely to Morocco as they continued to ask questions of the Dutch defence, but neither goalkeeper could be beaten again. That set up a tense penalty shootout where nerves overtook quality.
Saibari Delivers The Decisive Blow
The shootout turned into a battle of missed chances as five penalties failed to find the net. Big names like Achraf Hakimi, Justin Kluivert, Jurrien Timber and Neil El Aynaoui were among those who failed to convert, keeping the drama alive until the final kick.
The onus fell to Ismael Saibari, who stepped forward with the decisive penalty. The forward cleverly sent the keeper the wrong way to seal a shocking 3-2 shootout victory and spark wild celebrations among the Moroccan players and supporters.
Previously, Morocco have knocked out Portugal in the previous World Cup. Their rise is quite evident in their strong performances in the global stage.
One of the tournament favorites, Netherlands were completely taken aback by this loss. They were unlucky as they started the shootout well but couldn’t keep their nerves.
What's Next For Morocco
Morocco will take on Canada in the Round of 16 clash, where a tough test will await the African side. Morocco’s rise in world football is surely one of the talking points in the 23rd edition of the marquee event.
Netherlands vs Morocco Match Result: Netherlands 1-1 Morocco (AET; Morocco won 3-2 on penalties)
Goalscorers:
Netherlands: Cody Gakpo (72')
Morocco: Issa Diop (90+1')
Winning penalty: Ismael Saibari.