World Cup 2026: Netherlands 1-1 Morocco (Morocco win 3-2 on penalties) Player Ratings

Morocco booked their place in the Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw in Monterrey. Ismael Saibari converted the winning spot-kick after Yassine Bounou’s heroics in the shootout, sending the Atlas Lions into a last-16 clash against co-hosts Canada.

Match Report

The Atlas Lions were the better side for large periods of the contest and nearly took the lead in the opening half. Neil El Aynaoui forced Bart Verbruggen into a magnificent save before Achraf Hakimi rattled the Dutch defence with his relentless attacking runs.

The Netherlands, however, struck first. In the 72nd minute, Crysencio Summerville raced down the flank and squared for Cody Gakpo, who calmly finished to put Ronald Koeman’s men ahead. The emotional celebration carried extra significance following the personal tragedy the Liverpool forward recently endured.

Morocco refused to surrender. Deep into stoppage time, substitute Chemsdine Talbi delivered an excellent cross that was met by Issa Diop, whose powerful header beat Verbruggen and forced extra time.

Extra time produced few clear opportunities, although Soufiane Rahimi was denied by what many described as the save of the tournament from the Dutch goalkeeper. The drama continued in the penalty shootout, where both teams missed crucial efforts before Bounou saved Crysencio Summerville’s attempt, allowing Saibari to seal a memorable victory.

Morocco Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Yassine Bounou – 6.8

Made key saves during the match and delivered once again in the penalty shootout when Morocco needed him most.

Defence

Noussair Mazraoui – 7.6

Outstanding at left-back. Combined defensive discipline with dangerous forward runs.

Chadi Riad – 6.4

Worked hard before making way due to injury concerns.

Issa Diop – 7.5

The hero of normal time. Scored the dramatic equaliser and defended courageously despite picking up a booking.

Achraf Hakimi – 6.3

Missed his penalty but remained a constant threat down the right flank.

Midfield

Neil El Aynaoui – 7.1

Controlled possession well and was unfortunate not to score in the first half.

Ayyoub Bouaddi – 6.9

Another composed display from the teenage midfielder.

Azzedine Ounahi – 7.2

The heartbeat of Morocco’s midfield. Dictated the tempo and kept the Dutch under pressure throughout.

Attack

Bilal El Khannouss – 5.7

A difficult evening before being replaced late in the game.

Brahim Diaz – 6.5

Produced moments of quality but lacked a decisive final ball.

Ismael Saibari – 6.4

Missed several chances in open play but kept his composure to convert the winning penalty.

Substitutes

Soufiane Rahimi – 7.4

Provided energy and nearly won the match in extra time.

Chemsdine Talbi – 7.4

Delivered the cross that led to Diop’s equaliser and transformed Morocco’s attack.

Anass Salah-Eddine – 7.0

Settled quickly after replacing the injured Chadi Riad.

Gessime Yassine – 6.7

Worked hard during the latter stages.

Samir El Mourabet – 6.9

Added composure in midfield as Morocco pushed for victory.

Verdict

Issa Diop, Azzedine Ounahi and Noussair Mazraoui were exceptional, but Morocco’s collective resilience ultimately proved decisive. Once again, Yassine Bounou delivered on the biggest stage, helping the Atlas Lions eliminate one of Europe’s traditional powers and continue Africa’s remarkable World Cup campaign.