World Cup 2026: Motsepe, Infantino join Morocco’s Round of 16 celebrations after dramatic win over Netherlands

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Dr. Patrice Motsepe and CAF First Vice President Fouzi Lekjaa joined in the jubilant celebrations after Morocco secured a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands.

The Atlas Lions booked their place in the last 16 after defeating the Dutch 4-2 on penalties on Monday night following a fiercely contested encounter that ended level after regulation and extra time.

The victory sparked emotional scenes as players, coaching staff and officials celebrated another milestone in Morocco’s impressive World Cup campaign.

Among those celebrating the North African nation’s success were CAF President Dr. Motsepe and CAF Vice President Lekjaa, who shared smiles and congratulated the Moroccan delegation following the hard-fought triumph.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino also joined the celebrations, posing alongside the CAF leadership and Moroccan representatives as the Atlas Lions continued their remarkable journey on football’s biggest stage.

The presence of the continent’s football leadership underscored the significance of Morocco’s achievement, with the Atlas Lions once again carrying the hopes of African football deep into the tournament.

Morocco’s victory over the Netherlands further strengthened their reputation as one of the standout teams at the World Cup, having shown resilience and composure to prevail in the decisive penalty shootout.

Attention now turns to the Round of 16, where Morocco will face Canada for a place in the quarter-finals. The clash is expected to be one of the headline fixtures of the knockout stage as the Atlas Lions seek to extend their memorable run and continue flying Africa’s flag on the global stage.