Morocco are through to the World Cup last 16 after eliminating Netherlands in a penalty shootout, following a pulsating 1-1 draw at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey on Tuesday.

Mohamed Ouahbi's side now face co-hosts Canada in the round of 16 after a dramatic night that swung in both directions before Morocco prevailed 3-2 on penalties in front of 51,243 fans.

Gakpo breaks the deadlock

Netherlands seized control in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo found the net to break a tense stalemate, sparking jubilant scenes among the Dutch contingent in the stands.

Morocco pressed for a response and found it deep into stoppage time, when Issa Diop powered home a header in the 90+1' to pull the sides level and send the tie into extra time.

Verbruggen's stunning save

Extra time produced one of the standout moments of the tournament. In the 96th minute, Netherlands goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen produced a remarkable stop to deny Rahimi from point-blank range, a save that kept the scores level and ultimately forced the penalty shootout.

Shootout drama

The shootout proved a nervy affair for both sides. Netherlands missed three of their spot-kicks, while Morocco also faltered twice — but it was Anass Saibari who stepped up to convert the decisive penalty, sending Morocco into the last 16 and sparking wild celebrations on the pitch.

Morocco will now prepare for a round-of-16 meeting with Canada, one of the three host nations of FIFA World Cup 2026.