Dutch forward Cody Gakpo scored in the 72nd minute but Morocco equalized late through Issa Diop as the Atlas Lions eliminated the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Monterrey in Guadalupe, Mexico on Monday.
Cody Gakpo, the Dutch striker, opened the scoring in the 72nd minute with an assist from Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville. Moroccan defender Issa Diop headed home the equalizer in the 90+1st minute from a cross by Moroccan midfielder Chemsdine Talbi.
The Netherlands dominated early chances while Morocco mounted a resilient late comeback before prevailing in the shootout.
Both teams entered the match with strong group stage performances, each earning seven points. The Netherlands topped Group F with a +6 goal difference, while Morocco finished second in Group C with a +3 goal difference. Morocco’s victory advances them to the Round of 16.30.
Morocco will face Canada in the Round of 16 on July 5.