Morocco booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey.
The victory sets up a last-16 clash against co-hosts Canada.
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The Netherlands took the lead in the 72nd minute through Cody Gakpo, who scored an emotional goal just days after he and his partner announced the loss of their unborn son.
Morocco continued to press for an equaliser as the match entered stoppage time.
Morocco’s persistence paid off deep into added time when Issa Diop headed home to level the score at 1-1, forcing the contest into extra time.
Despite chances for both teams, neither side could find a winner over the additional 30 minutes.
The penalty shootout proved equally tense, with both teams missing spot-kicks.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a decisive save from Crysencio Summerville before Ismael Saibari calmly converted the winning penalty to send Morocco through.
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised his players after the victory, saying the team had earned global respect through its performances.
The Atlas Lions now prepare to face Canada in the Round of 16 as they continue their impressive World Cup campaign
