World Cup 2026: Diop admits surprise after crucial equaliser as Morocco book Canada showdown

Morocco defender Issa Diop admitted he had little idea how he found himself in the right place to score the equaliser that helped the Atlas Lions knock the Netherlands out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and secure a place in the Round of 16.

The centre-back restored parity after the Netherlands had taken the lead through Cody Gakpo in a fiercely contested Round of 32 encounter.

Diop’s goal proved to be a turning point as Morocco battled their way through the remainder of the contest before keeping their composure in the penalty shootout to complete a memorable victory over the Dutch.

Reflecting on his unlikely strike after the match, Diop in an interview with beIN Sports confessed that instinct rather than planning led to the decisive moment.

“Honestly, I don’t really know what I was doing inside the penalty area. I saw the ball there. I jumped and it was a goal.”

The defender’s honest assessment drew smiles after a performance that showcased Morocco’s determination and resilience against one of Europe’s traditional football powers.

After falling behind to Gakpo’s opener, Morocco responded with greater urgency, eventually finding the breakthrough through Diop before producing a disciplined defensive display to force penalties. The North Africans then held their nerve from the spot to eliminate the Netherlands and continue their impressive World Cup campaign.

The victory sends Morocco into the Round of 16, where they will face Canada for a place in the quarter-finals.

Having once again demonstrated their fighting spirit on the global stage, the Atlas Lions will now turn their attention to another difficult knockout challenge, carrying the confidence gained from one of the biggest wins of their tournament so far.