Rabat: The Moroccan national team continued its remarkable run in the World Cup, securing a place in the Round of 16 at the expense of the Netherlands, after winning on penalties following a 1-1 draw in both regulation and extra time. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the two teams delivered a strong and exciting match characterized by competitiveness and intensity, reflecting their similar skill levels and each side's desire to continue their journey in the knockout stages. The Netherlands opened the scoring through Cody Gakpo, who capitalized on an attacking opportunity, giving the "Oranje" the lead in the second half. The Moroccan team refused to give up, continuing to press and search for an equalizer until the final minutes, when defender Issa Diop scored a header that ignited the stadium's atmosphere and brought the "Atlas Lions" back into the game. During extra time, both teams exchanged chances, with Morocco enjoying more possession and launching attacks that were thwarted by the brilliance of Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. The match ended in a draw, forcing a penalty shootout. In the decisive moment, the Moroccan players displayed remarkable composure and confidence in front of goal, while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou played a pivotal role in securing his country's qualification by saving the Dutch penalties. With this victory, the Moroccan national team confirms its ability to handle high-stakes matches and continues to demonstrate that its historic achievement at the Qatar World Cup was not a fluke, but rather the result of a well-developed football project that has positioned it among the teams capable of competing with the world's best. In the round of 16, Morocco will face Canada, who qualified after defeating South Africa 1-0, in a new encounter where the "Atlas Lions" aspire to continue their progress and reach the quarterfinals.