Morocco advanced to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup on Monday, defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 1-1 draw in Monterrey.
Morocco secured a 3-2 shootout victory when goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved the Netherlands’ fourth penalty from Crysencio Summerville, followed by striker Ismael Saibari converting the winning spot-kick.
The enthralling match went to extra time after Issa Diop scored a dramatic equaliser for Morocco in the first minute of stoppage time, just as the Netherlands seemed poised for victory.
The Netherlands had taken the lead midway through the second half with a goal from Cody Gakpo. The Dutch bench rushed onto the field to embrace the 27-year-old Gakpo, who was visibly emotional. Gakpo and his partner, Noa van der Bij, had recently announced the loss of their unborn child.
Morocco’s Issa Diop levelled the score in the 91st minute, heading in a long cross from Chemsdine Talbi.
In the 97th minute of extra time, Morocco appeared set to take the lead when Soufiane Rahimi’s skilful footwork created a one-on-one opportunity with Verbruggen, but the Dutch goalkeeper managed to deflect the shot.
The teams entered the match with the highest combined ranking of any Round of 32 fixture, with Morocco ranked sixth in the world and the Netherlands seventh.
The victory sends Morocco into a last-16 clash with Canada in Houston on Saturday.
