Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi declared that his side has "gained everybody's respect" after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands secured their place in the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking after the match in Guadalajara, Mexico, Ouahbi highlighted that the team's performance on the pitch proved their quality beyond words.
Morocco's Penalty Heroics Seal Round of 16 Berth
Issa Diop scored a crucial equaliser to force extra time, and Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot kick as Morocco, semifinalists in 2022, continued their impressive tournament run by defeating the 2018 third-place finishers Netherlands. The victory ensures Morocco advances to the knockout stage, where they will face Canada on July 4.
Ouahbi, who previously coached Morocco's under-20 team, emphasised that his squad is driven by a deeper purpose. "This team, and all the Moroccan youth teams, are fighting for much, much more than just football or simply winning a match," he said. "They know that behind them there are millions and millions of people. We played when it was two in the morning in Morocco, and we are certain that most people stayed awake. That gives you the energy not to give up, to keep going and to believe in yourself."
Statistical Dominance Against the Netherlands
Despite needing penalties to decide the outcome, Ouahbi insisted Morocco dominated the match statistically. "We completely dominated a Netherlands team," he said. "We had 70 per cent possession, more shots and more expected goals. We controlled the match. We wanted to stay calm, play our game and believe that if it went to penalties, we had an exceptional goalkeeper. We did not turn the match into a chaotic battle. We controlled it."
The coach admitted surprise at the Netherlands' defensive approach, interpreting it as a sign of respect for Morocco. "I really did not expect this kind of low block because the Netherlands like to have the ball and is very strong when they do. I saw this type of play as a form of respect," he explained.
Belief and Warning Against Complacency
Ouahbi praised the unwavering belief among his players and fans over the past few years. "Nobody can stop us if we play the football we know how to play," he said. However, he cautioned against overconfidence: "But nobody is unbeatable. If we get things wrong, we will go home."
Morocco's round of 16 match against Canada is scheduled for July 4, as the Atlas Lions aim to replicate or surpass their historic 2022 semifinal run.
