Morocco Coach Ouahbi Explains How They Eliminated Netherlands in Cup 2026
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi explained how his team eliminated the Netherlands from the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 after a 1-1 draw went to penalties on June 30. Ismael Saibari scored the winning spot-kick after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved Crysencio Summerville's attempt. Ouahbi said Morocco dominated the match, enjoying about 70% possession, more shots and a higher expected-goals total, and that they stayed calm, played their game and trusted their goalkeeper. He added that the performance has earned the team respect worldwide. Morocco will now face World Cup co-host Canada in the Round of 16 on Saturday.
The win marks Morocco's first appearance in the World Cup Round of 16 as an African nation, breaking a long-standing continental barrier. It shows that disciplined, possession-based football can compete with traditional powerhouses, boosting confidence for African teams in future tournaments. For fans, the result shifts expectations about which nations can advance deep in the tournament and highlights the growing competitiveness of African sides on the world stage.
With Morocco's disciplined style proving effective against a European side, will their approach hold up against the home-advantage of Canada, or will the North American hosts overcome the tactical discipline that saw the Dutch eliminated?