By Tomiwa Jagunna
Morocco’s remarkable World Cup journey continues after the Atlas Lions eliminated the Netherlands with a dramatic 1-1 draw before sealing a 3-2 penalty shootout victory at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey.
The Dutch failed to stamp their authority on the contest despite Cody Gakpo breaking the deadlock in the 72nd minute. Just as Ronald Koeman’s men appeared to be edging towards qualification, Issa Diop powered home a stoppage-time equaliser to force extra time.
With neither side able to find a winner, Morocco once again relied on their composure from 12 yards, as Yassine Bounou inspired another shootout triumph before Ismael Saibari calmly converted the decisive penalty to send the North Africans into the Round of 16.
The Dutch struggled to create attacking momentum and paid the ultimate price for their lack of conviction, while Morocco’s resilience and mental strength reinforced their growing reputation as one of the tournament’s most dangerous teams.
Elsewhere, Paraguay secured one of the biggest results of the tournament by knocking out Germany after a 1-1 draw before claiming a 4-3 penalty shootout victory.
Julio Enciso opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, only for Kai Havertz to level matters in the second half. Neither team could find a breakthrough in extra time, but Paraguay held their nerve in the shootout, with goalkeeper Orlando Gill producing crucial saves before José Canale converted the winning penalty. The result sends Paraguay into the Round of 16, while Germany exit the tournament after another frustrating campaign.
