Netherlands vs Morocco, FIFA World Cup result: Saibari’s shoot-out winner sends Morocco into last 16 as Netherlands crash out in first World Cup exit

Morocco’s Ismael Saibari (11) scored against Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen (1) in a penalty shootout. (AP photo) Ismael Saibari held his nerve to convert the decisive penalty as Morocco overcame the Netherlands 3-2 in a dramatic shootout following a 1-1 draw in Monterrey on Monday night, booking their place in the last 16 while ending the Netherlands’ campaign with their first World Cup exit in years.The Netherlands were looking for a way to victory after Cody Gakpo struck in the 72nd minute to finish off a great save from Crysencio Summerville. The goal sparked emotional scenes as the Dutch bench ran onto the pitch to hug Gakpo, who was visibly moved after recently sharing the loss of his unborn child with partner Noa van der Bij.But Morocco refused to fold. Deep into stoppage time, Issa Diop rose highest to meet Chemsdine Talbi’s looping cross and head past Bart Verbruggen in the 91st minute to send the game into extra time.Neither side managed any clear-cut chances in the next 30 minutes, with both teams showing discipline and caution in a thrilling, high-stakes knockout battle.

The Moroccan team begins to celebrate after winning on penalty kicks in the 32nd round of the World Cup. (AP photo)

Bounou’s save sets up Saibari’s decisive strike

The shootout remained delicately tied at 2-2 after four rounds before Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced the decisive moment, diving sharply to his left to keep out Crysencio Summerville’s effort and turn the tide.There was drama earlier when Bart Verbruggen appeared to stop Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty, only for the ball to slip past him and cross the line with his movement, keeping Morocco alive in the match.Saibari stepped up to Morocco’s last kick with maximum pressure and calmly slotted the penalty into the bottom left corner as Verbruggen dived the wrong way. He immediately tore off his shirt and was harassed by teammates in euphoric celebrations.The result sends Morocco into the last 16 to face Canada in Houston as they continue their strong tournament run, while the Netherlands suffered a shock early exit despite their high ranking and pre-match expectations.