Morocco Win Penalty Shootout to Reach World Cup Last 16
Morocco celebrate after defeating the Netherlands in a World Cup penalty shootout.
Morocco vs Netherlands produced late drama on Monday as Morocco secured a 3-2 penalty shootout victory to book a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
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The knockout tie finished 1-1 after extra time before Morocco held their nerve in the shootout.
Netherlands Strike First
The Netherlands broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute.
Cody Gakpo completed a flowing counterattack after receiving a pass from Crysencio Summerville and gave his side the lead.
Following the goal, Gakpo became emotional on the pitch.
Reports said Gakpo and his partner recently suffered the loss of their unborn child during pregnancy.
Morocco Force Extra Time
Morocco continued to push for an equaliser and created several chances throughout the match.
Earlier in the second half, Achraf Hakimi struck the crossbar as Morocco increased pressure.
The breakthrough finally arrived deep into stoppage time.
Issa Diop headed in the equalising goal one minute into added time and sent the match into extra time.
Penalty Shootout Decides Contest
Neither side found a winner during extra time.
As a result, the contest moved to penalties.
Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot kick and sealed Morocco’s 3-2 victory in the shootout.
Next Challenge for Morocco
Morocco will now face co-hosts Canada in the Round of 16.
The match will take place in Houston on Saturday as Morocco continue their World Cup campaign.
