Morocco defender Noussair Mazraoui has praised the Atlas Lions' resilience after they edged Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout to advance to the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

A late equaliser changes everything

Netherlands looked set to progress after Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock with 18 minutes remaining, Crysencio Summerville providing the assist. Morocco, however, refused to bow out without a fight.

Substitute Issa Diop proved the turning point, rising to meet Chemsdine Talbi's cross from the left with a header that levelled the tie and forced extra time.

Bounou the shootout hero

With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the match went to penalties. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou stepped up as Morocco's decisive figure — saving Summerville's effort after both teams had each missed two spot-kicks. Ismael Saibari then converted the winning penalty to seal a Round of 16 tie against co-hosts Canada, to be played in Houston on 4 July.

Mazraoui's verdict