Morocco staged a stunning comeback to eliminate the Netherlands in the World Cup round of 32, triumphing 3–2 in a penalty shootout after a gripping 1–1 draw in Monterrey. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou delivered the decisive moment, saving Crysencio Summerville’s fourth penalty before Ismael Saibari blasted home the winner on Monday night. The victory sets up a last‑16 clash with Canada in Houston on Saturday.
The Dutch had looked on course for victory after Cody Gakpo struck midway through the second half. The Liverpool forward, playing just days after the tragic loss of his unborn child, was visibly overcome with emotion as teammates embraced him following his goal.
But Morocco refused to yield. In stoppage time, Issa Diop rose unmarked to head in Chemsdine Talbi’s cross, forcing extra time and ultimately penalties. The equaliser capped a dramatic turnaround that carried Morocco through to the next stage of the tournament.
Morocco had created the better chances in the fractious encounter, which saw players from both sides flying into tackles to test the patience of Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio. The Atlas Lions almost took the lead on 20 minutes when Neil El Aynaoui glanced an Achraf Hakimi corner goal-wards only to be denied by a superb reflex save from Netherlands goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Source: Graphic Online
