By Victor Eludire | Sports Analyst
Morocco booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero once again with a crucial save in the shootout before Ismael Saibari converted the decisive penalty to send the Atlas Lions through.
The victory capped another disciplined performance from Morocco, who matched the Dutch throughout 120 minutes with their trademark defensive organisation and composure under pressure.
Having also advanced from Group C unbeaten with seven points, the North Africans continue to underline their credentials as one of the tournament’s most resilient sides.
Morocco’s latest triumph builds on the momentum of their historic 2022 World Cup campaign, where they became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals.
They have now won both penalty shootouts in their FIFA World Cup history, re
