Morocco’s head coach Mohamed Ouahbi celebrates with his midfielder #23 Bilal El Khannouss after winning the penalty shootout of the 2026 World Cup round of 32 football match between the Netherlands and Morocco at the Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe on June 29, 2026. (Photo by CARL DE SOUZA / AFP)
Morocco’s penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands has won the team newfound respect on the world stage, according to coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who said his players drew their motivation from the millions of fans following the match back home.
The Atlas Lions edged past the Dutch 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw, securing their place in the round of 16, where they will take on tournament co-hosts Canada. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved decisive in the shootout, saving Crysencio Summerville’s effort before Ismael Saibari stepped up to convert the decisive penalty.
“Morocco has gained everybody’s respect now,” Ouahbi told reporters. “It’s not because of what we’ve said. We’ve now shown it.”
Ouahbi, who took charge of the senior team after previous success leading Morocco’s under-20 side, explained that his squad’s motivation extends well beyond the football pitch.
