The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached a critical juncture as the knockout stages intensify. In the latest round of 16 qualification match, the national teams of the Netherlands and Morocco faced off in a highly anticipated encounter.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the match, which began at 05:00 Baku time, proved to be a test of endurance and tactical discipline for both sides.
The deadlock was broken in the 72nd minute when Cody Gakpo scored to put the Netherlands in the lead. However, Morocco responded in the dying moments of the match; in the 90+1st minute, Issa Diop equalized the score to 1-1, forcing the game into extra time.
Despite sustained pressure from both sides during the additional periods, neither team could find a decisive goal, leading the match to a penalty shootout. Morocco demonstrated superior composure from the spot, winning the shootout 3-2 to secure their place in the next round.
With this victory, the Moroccan team advances to the round of 16, where they are scheduled to face Canada. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks the first time the tournament features 48 teams, significantly expanding the scale of the competition compared to previous editions.
