Morocco have qualified for the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as Morocco's hero, saving the decisive penalty from Crysencio Summerville before Ismael Saibari converted the winning spot-kick to send the Atlas Lions through.
The Netherlands had looked set for victory after Cody Gakpo scored midway through the second half. The Liverpool forward celebrated an emotional goal just days after news of the loss of his unborn child.
Morocco refused to give up and found a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time when Issa Diop headed home from a cross by substitute Chemsdine Talbi, forcing the match into extra time.
Both teams created chances in the additional period, with Morocco coming closest through Soufiane Rahimi, whose effort was brilliantly saved by Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
With no further goals, the tie was settled by penalties, where Morocco held their nerve to secure victory.
The Atlas Lions will now face Canada in the Round of 16 on Saturday in Houston.
