In a dramatic World Cup last-32 tie, the Netherlands survived a late Morocco equaliser and a penalty shootout to advance, with Bart Verbruggen the hero.
In a World Cup last-32 tie that had everything — a late equaliser, a missed penalty, and a shootout that stretched to sudden death — the Netherlands ultimately prevailed 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes. But it was far from straightforward. Morocco, dominating possession and creating the better chances, looked destined for victory until a dramatic finale. Bart Verbruggen, the Dutch goalkeeper, produced five saves in regulation and two crucial stops in the shootout to send his side through.
Summary
The match at a neutral venue saw Morocco control proceedings from the outset, enjoying 70% possession and outshooting the Netherlands 11-6. Yet it was the Dutch who struck first through Cody Gakpo in the 72nd minute, assisted by Crysencio Summerville. Morocco pushed relentlessly and finally found the breakthrough in the 90th minute when Issa Diop headed home from a Chadi Talbi assist. With the score 1-1 after 90 minutes, extra time failed to separate the sides, leading to a penalty shootout that saw both teams miss early spot-kicks before the Dutch held their nerve.
Key Moments
72' — Gakpo breaks the deadlock: After a period of sustained Moroccan pressure, the Netherlands struck against the run of play. Summerville, who had been a lively presence on the wing, slipped a clever pass to Gakpo, who finished calmly past the Moroccan goalkeeper. It was a rare moment of incision from a Dutch side that had mustered only two shots on target all match.
90' — Diop's late equaliser: Just as the Netherlands thought they had secured a gritty win, Morocco's persistence paid off. Talbi delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, and Diop rose highest to power a header past Verbruggen. The goal sent Moroccan fans into delirium and forced extra time.
120' — Penalty shootout drama: The shootout was a rollercoaster. Teun Koopmeiners scored for the Netherlands, but Neil El Aynaoui's effort was saved. Justin Kluivert then missed for the Dutch, and Soufiane Rahimi converted for Morocco. Wout Weghorst and Chadi Talbi both scored, but Quinten Timber's miss left the door open for Morocco. However, Verbruggen saved the decisive spot-kick to seal the win.
Match Analysis
Morocco's dominance was reflected in the statistics: 70% possession, 11 total shots to the Netherlands' six, and an expected goals (xG) of 1.40 against just 0.23 for the Dutch. The Atlas Lions controlled the midfield through Azzedine Ounahi, who created three key passes, and Neil El Aynaoui, who was a constant threat. Yet they lacked a cutting edge until Diop's late header. The Netherlands, by contrast, were content to sit deep and hit on the counter, a strategy that almost paid off but left them vulnerable.
The Dutch defence, marshalled by a solid backline, was forced into 18 fouls as they struggled to contain Morocco's fluid attack. However, goalkeeper Verbruggen was immense, making five saves to keep his side in the game. The xG prevented statistic of -0.83 for both teams suggests the goalkeepers outperformed expectations, but Verbruggen's impact was decisive.
Player Performances
Bart Verbruggen (Netherlands) — 8.3 rating: The Dutch goalkeeper was the clear man of the match. His five saves included a crucial stop in the 85th minute to deny Rahimi, and he was equally impressive in the shootout, saving from El Aynaoui and the final Moroccan taker.
Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) — 7.7 rating: The full-back was a defensive rock, contributing six tackles and interceptions, while also pushing forward to support attacks.
Issa Diop (Morocco) — 7.3 rating: The centre-back scored the equaliser and was a threat from set pieces, registering one shot on target. His yellow card for a tactical foul was a minor blemish.
Crysencio Summerville (Netherlands) — 7.2 rating: The winger provided the assist for Gakpo's goal and created three key passes, proving a constant outlet on the break.
Key Stats
- Possession: Morocco 70% — Netherlands 30%
- Total shots: Morocco 11 — Netherlands 6
- Shots on target: Morocco 5 — Netherlands 2
- Expected goals (xG): Morocco 1.40 — Netherlands 0.23
- Passes completed: Morocco 800 (91%) — Netherlands 293 (79%)
- Fouls: Netherlands 18 — Morocco 15
- Yellow cards: Morocco 1 (Diop) — Netherlands 0
The statistics paint a clear picture: Morocco were the better side but lacked the ruthlessness to finish the tie in normal time. The Netherlands, despite being outplayed, showed resilience and clinical finishing when it mattered most.
What This Means
For the Netherlands, this victory sets up a Round of 16 clash and keeps their World Cup dream alive. Having topped their group with seven points from three matches, they have shown an ability to grind out results even when not at their best. For Morocco, this is a heartbreaking exit. They finished second in their group with seven points, matching the Dutch, but will rue their missed chances and the penalty shootout defeat. Their performance, however, suggests they are a team on the rise.
What Happens Next
The Netherlands will now prepare for their Round of 16 fixture, with the date and opponent to be confirmed. Morocco, meanwhile, can hold their heads high after a strong campaign. For the latest fixtures and standings, check the official tournament pages. Fans can also follow the Netherlands and Morocco team pages for updates.
