Morocco's national football team has earned widespread respect by dramatically knocking the Netherlands out of the World Cup in a thrilling penalty shootout, fueled by national pride and a dominant performance.
Key Points
- Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, securing their place in the FIFA World Cup last 16.
- Coach Mohamed Ouahbi stated the victory earned Morocco global respect, attributing success to the team's fighting spirit and national pride.
- Morocco dominated the match with 70% possession and more shots, despite the need for penalties to progress.
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his side had earned respect after knocking the Netherlands out of the World Cup in a penalty shootout on Monday, adding that his players were fuelled by the desire to make the millions watching back home proud.
Morocco beat the Dutch 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to reach the last 16, where they will face co-hosts Canada.
Ismael Saibari converted the winning spot kick after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou had saved Crysencio Summerville's attempt.
Morocco's Drive For Global Respect
"Morocco has gained everybody's respect now," Ouahbi told reporters. "It's not because of what we've said. We've now shown it."
The coach, who stepped up from Morocco's under-20 setup after helping guide the country's youth teams to success, said his players were driven by something greater than football.
"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're certain that most people stayed awake. That gives you the energy not to give up, to keep going and to believe in yourself."
Dominating Play And Strategic Victory
Ouahbi said Morocco had dominated the match despite needing penalties to progress.
"We completely dominated a Netherlands team," he said.
"We had 70% possession, more shots and more expected goals. We controlled the match," he added.
"We wanted to stay calm, play our game and believe that if it went to penalties we had an exceptional goalkeeper. We didn't turn the match into a chaotic battle. We controlled it."
Building On Past Success, Facing New Challenges
Ouahbi said the Netherlands' defensive approach came as a surprise but viewed it as recognition of Morocco's growing stature.
"I really didn't expect this kind of low block because the Netherlands like to have the ball and are very strong when they do," he said. "I saw this type of play as a form of respect."
The 49-year-old felt Morocco's run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar had changed the country's mentality.
"For the past few years, Moroccan players believe in themselves and the supporters believe in us as well," he said.
Ouahbi cautioned that Canada would provide another stern test in the last 16 but said Morocco would approach the knockout tie full of belief.
"Nobody can stop us if we play the football we know how to play," he said. "But nobody is unbeatable. If we get things wrong, we'll go home."
More News Coverage
More From Rediff
FIFA World Cup 2026: Knockout Stage Schedule In IST
Haaland knocks Ivory Coast out with last-minute winner
Zverev fights back to avoid shock exit
Related Stories
Morocco edge Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup last 16
- Gakpo's Tears: A World Cup Story Beyond Football
- How Keeper Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany
- How Ancelotti Masterminded Brazil's Great Escape Against Japan
- First Time Germany Knocked Out On Penalties At World Cup
Quick Links MoroccoWorld CupNetherlandsMohamed OuahbiCanadaCrysencio SummervilleIsmael SaibariYassine BounouDrive For Global RespectQatar
Web Stories Infinix Launches Note 60 Pro Want to Know More About The Tecno Camon Slim? 10 Of Bombay's Oldest Restaurants
FIFA World Cup 2026
Source: Rediff.com
