World Cup 2026: Morocco remained resilient to stun Netherland – Hero Issa Diop

Morocco hero Issa Diop has hailed the Atlas Lions’ resilience after their dramatic victory over the Netherlands, which secured their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Atlas Lions defeated the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after an intense encounter ended 1-1 following regular and extra time in Tuesday morning’s knockout clash.

The Dutch side looked set for qualification after Cody Gakpo opened the scoring in the 72nd minute, putting the Netherlands ahead during a tense second half.

However, Morocco refused to give up and continued pushing for an equalizer until the final moments of the match. Their persistence paid off in dramatic fashion when Diop rose to score a crucial equalizing goal in the second minute of stoppage time, sending Moroccan supporters into wild celebrations and bringing the Atlas Lions back into the contest.

Morocco eventually completed the comeback by holding their nerve in the penalty shootout to eliminate the Netherlands and advance to the next stage of the tournament.

Speaking after the memorable victory in an interview with beIN SPORTS, Diop admitted the encounter was extremely difficult, especially after Morocco fell behind late in the game.

“It was a tough match, especially when they took the lead,” Diop said. “But we remained resilient until the final minute and accomplished the mission.”

The defender also praised Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou for his leadership and composure during the decisive penalty shootout.

“We knew that Yassine Bounou is a top-class goalkeeper,” Diop added. “We believed in him, and we believe in his abilities.”

Bounou once again proved to be one of Morocco’s key figures as the Atlas Lions triumphed under immense pressure to continue their impressive World Cup campaign.

Diop also turned his attention to Morocco’s upcoming Round of 16 clash against Canada, warning that the North Africans must remain fully focused despite the excitement surrounding their latest victory.

“It will be a big game, and we must not underestimate the opponent,” he stated. “I hope we will continue to have everyone’s support, and we dedicate today’s victory to the Moroccan fans.”

Morocco will now face Canada in the Round of 16 after the North American side secured qualification with a narrow victory over South Africa.

The Atlas Lions will head into the knockout encounter with growing confidence and momentum after producing one of the most dramatic comebacks of the tournament so far.

Diop’s stoppage-time equalizer is already being celebrated as one of the defining moments of Morocco’s World Cup journey, with the defender emerging as the hero of a famous night for the North African nation.