Morocco advances to World Cup last 16 after beating Netherlands on penalties
Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout in a thrilling match of the last 32 of the FIFA World Cup to advance to the last 16. The match was decided by a penalty shootout after both teams played to a 1-1 draw after the regular 90 minutes and extra time.
The first half ended goalless, and in the 72nd minute of the second half, Cody Gakpo gave the Netherlands the lead.
The game seemed headed for victory, but the Netherlands equalized in the first minute of injury time. Morocco’s Issa scored to level the game at 1-1. Subsequently, during the 30 minutes of extra time, both teams created some good chances but failed to score. Ultimately, the match went to a penalty shootout.
Morocco delivered an outstanding performance in the penalty shootout, securing a 3-2 victory. With this result, the Netherlands has been eliminated from the tournament, while Morocco has secured its place in the Round of 16. Earlier, Paraguay had defeated Germany in a penalty shootout in the last 32 to reach the last 16.
Then, Morocco also caused another major upset in the World Cup by defeating another European powerhouse, the Netherlands. In the group stage, the Netherlands topped their group with seven points and advanced to the knockout stage.
Morocco also finished second in their group with seven points and made it to the last 32. Although both teams were undefeated in the group stage, Morocco has continued its World Cup journey by winning the knockout stage.
Morocco will now face Canada in the last 16.
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