World Cup 2026: African teams have greatly improved, says Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman after penalty shootout loss to Morocco

Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has praised Morocco’s rapid development on the global stage, describing their rise as evidence of the growing strength and tactical maturity of African football.

Koeman’s remarks came in the aftermath of a tense Round of 32 encounter at the 2026 World Cup, where Morocco edged the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout to book their place in the Round of 16 against Canada.

“It’s very clear watching this World Cup that African teams have greatly improved in a tactical sense, and also in the way they play their matches,” Koeman said.

He singled out Morocco for special praise, highlighting the country’s growing reputation for producing elite talent capable of competing at the highest level in Europe.

“Morocco is the country that, in terms of talents, really generates good players, young players that continue to join the major clubs in Europe. It’s not without a reason why they have a higher ranking than the Netherlands,” he added.

Morocco’s victory, secured under pressure from the spot, further underlined their resilience and growing pedigree on the world stage. The result sends the Atlas Lions into the Round of 16, where they will face Canada in what promises to be another stern test of their credentials.

The win also reinforces Morocco’s status as one of the standout African sides at the tournament, continuing a trend that has seen them consistently challenge traditional football powerhouses and push deeper into the knockout stages of the World Cup.