Ismael Saibari held his nerve to convert the decisive penalty as Morocco edged past the Netherlands 3-2 in a dramatic shootout after a 1-1 draw in Monterrey on Monday night, booking their place in the last 16 while ending the Dutch campaign in their earliest World Cup exit in years.The Netherlands looked on course for victory after Cody Gakpo struck in the 72nd minute, finishing a fine move created by Crysencio Summerville. The goal sparked emotional scenes as the Dutch bench rushed onto the pitch to embrace Gakpo, who was visibly moved after recently sharing the loss of his unborn child with partner Noa van der Bij. But Morocco refused to fold. Deep into stoppage time, Issa Diop rose highest to meet Chemsdine Talbi’s looping cross and powered a header past Bart Verbruggen in the 91st minute, sending the contest into extra time.Neither side managed a clear chance in the additional 30 minutes, with both teams showing discipline and caution in a tense, high-stakes knockout battle.
The Moroccan team starts to celebrate after winning on penalty kicks the World Cup round of 32 match. (AP Photo)
Bounou’s save sets up Saibari’s decisive strike
The shootout remained finely balanced at 2-2 after four rounds before Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced the defining moment, diving sharply to his left to keep out Crysencio Summerville’s effort and tilt the momentum.There was earlier drama when Bart Verbruggen appeared to have stopped Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty, only for the ball to slip beyond him and cross the line via his movement, keeping Morocco alive in the contest.With pressure at its peak, Saibari stepped up for Morocco’s final kick and calmly slotted his penalty into the bottom-left corner as Verbruggen dived the wrong way. He immediately tore off his shirt and was mobbed by teammates in euphoric celebrations.The result sends Morocco into the last 16, where they will face Canada in Houston, continuing their strong tournament run, while the Netherlands suffer a shock early exit despite their high ranking and pre-match expectations.
