Match details
Morocco’s early pressure and Dutch resistance
Morocco went close on 20 minutes when Neil El Aynaoui glanced an Achraf Hakimi corner towards goal, only for Netherlands goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen to produce a sharp reflex save. Verbruggen was called into action again moments later, tipping a powerful Hakimi strike over the bar.
The contest grew increasingly physical. Saibari was fortunate to avoid punishment after elbowing Jan Paul van Hecke in the face. The Netherlands’ best first-half effort came on 44 minutes when Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven struck fiercely from the edge of the area, forcing Bounou to tip the ball over.
Van Hecke, who bloodied his head in a collision in the penalty area, remained central to several incidents and finished the half with a strong tackle that upended El Aynaoui just before the interval. As the half ended, Saibari narrowly failed to connect with a cross that flashed across the Dutch goal.
Second-half breakthrough and late equaliser
The second half became end-to-end and swung towards the Netherlands after coach Ronald Koeman introduced Wout Weghorst following the hydration break. Weghorst quickly influenced the game, flicking on a long ball to send Summerville in behind. Summerville crossed for Gakpo, who threw himself at the ball to score and give the Dutch the lead.
With Virgil van Dijk marshalling the Netherlands defence, the Dutch appeared on course for victory until Morocco struck late. Substitute Chemsdine Talbi delivered a cross that found Diop unmarked, and the defender glanced a header in during injury time to force extra time.
Extra time and penalties
Morocco nearly won it in the 96th minute when Soufiane Rahimi went through on goal, but Verbruggen made a standout save to deny him. The Netherlands held on to take the match to penalties.
Morocco missed their first kick when El Aynaoui hit the bar, but recovered in the shootout. Bounou then saved Summerville’s effort on the Netherlands’ fourth penalty, before Saibari stepped up to seal the win.
