Morocco has successfully progressed to the last 16, following a nearly three-hour match and a chaotic penalty shootout that set up a clash with Canada. Ismael Saibari converted the decisive penalty after both teams struggled with their opportunities. Fittingly, after the teams each missed two chances, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save against Crysencio Summerville, reminiscent of his performances during the victory against Spain at Qatar 2022.
Morocco’s performance warranted a win against a lackluster Netherlands team, particularly after center-back Issa Diop’s goal earned them extra time. One can’t help but ponder how Cody Gakpo, who played despite the heartbreaking news of losing his unborn child, coped with the emotional rollercoaster. It appeared he had clinched victory with a powerful strike in the 72nd minute, leading to tears as he pointed skyward and received comfort from teammate Denzel Dumfries. The sport can be harsh, but life’s greater matters often overshadow it.
Before the match, it was clear that one of the two teams, both positioned outside the top favorites for the tournament, would exit prematurely. Expectations were high for an entertaining encounter given their attacking displays in the group stage, but knockout rounds often bring a different dynamic.
Ronald Koeman aimed to transform his squad into a more disciplined unit. He discussed the importance of compactness and limiting space for opponents known for their intricate play. This tactical shift led him to abandon the traditional 4-3-3 formation in favor of a three-centre-back setup, sacrificing midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. Early on, this change prompted Morocco to seek quick, long balls that yielded little success.
Despite the tactical shift, the majority of fans in the stands, surrounded by the striking peaks of Cerro de la Silla, remained optimistic. The crowd, a blend of green Mexican jerseys among patches of orange and red, seemed to have chosen their side. In 2014, Morocco faced defeat against the Netherlands in the last 16, following a controversial late penalty awarded after an incident involving Arjen Robben. One placard read, “No, it wasn’t a penalty and you know it!” while every Dutch touch was met with jeers.
After a cautious opening 20 minutes, genuine action finally unfolded. Bart Verbruggen showcased his skills with two remarkable saves, first denying Neil El Aynaoui’s header at the near post, then thwarting a powerful shot from Achraf Hakimi. With temperatures reaching 31C, aided by strong winds, Morocco seemed poised to unleash more attacking threats.
An undercurrent of tension marked the match from the outset, exemplified by Jan Paul van Hecke’s frustration at Saibari after taking a blow to the face. Shortly after Verbruggen’s heroics, Van Hecke found himself in trouble again, this time following a collision with Azzedine Ounahi. The physicality reflected the high stakes and perhaps the underlying rivalry, given the over 430,000 people of Moroccan descent residing in the Netherlands. Three players born in the Netherlands, including left-back Noussair Mazraoui, were part of Morocco’s squad, underscoring the complexity of their ties.
By the 38th minute, Van Hecke had hit the ground for a third time, blood visible on his scalp after a clash with Mazraoui. Although he was treated, the match remained fragmented. Just before halftime, Bounou had to spring into action, tipping a long-range effort from Micky van de Ven over the bar. Ounahi shot over the bar after Van Hecke halted a swift counter, while a Hakimi free-kick narrowly missed reaching Saibari. The match had a tense atmosphere, suggesting it could go the distance.
Morocco sought to shift the momentum early in the second half, with 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi firing over and Hakimi hitting the crossbar following a clever run. Hakimi’s timing on a break in the 55th minute was nearly perfect, but he was halted by a strong tackle from Van de Ven.
Gakpo and Summerville struggled to create chances from the wings, leaving Brian Brobbey, a standout from the opening round, largely uninvolved. Instead, the threats were coming from Morocco, forcing Verbruggen to deal with multiple dangerous corners from Hakimi.
As the second half progressed, play slowed considerably. After the break, the Netherlands, who had been second best for much of the match, adopted a more direct approach. The seasoned Wout Weghorst, recently introduced, flicked on a long pass from Verbruggen, enabling Summerville to make a run. Despite being challenged by two defenders, he managed to pass to Gakpo, who emphatically scored, sparking a jubilant celebration among his teammates.
However, Morocco was determined not to be overshadowed. A well-deserved equalizer came from Diop, who connected with a precise cross from substitute Chemsdine Talbi. While extra time seemed inevitable, the circumstances surrounding the equalizer were unexpected.
Extra time began with Morocco reasserting their control. Verbruggen made an outstanding save against Soufiane Rahimi, using both knee and hand to deny him. However, that moment proved to be the only significant event during the cautious extra period, setting the stage for Saibari’s penalty to seal the match.
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