Morocco Coach: We Deserved to Advance

Morocco coach Mohammad Wahbi praised his side after they beat the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties to reach the 2026 World Cup last 16.

The tie finished 1-1 after 120 minutes, with Issa Diop’s stoppage-time header forcing extra time. Wahbi said Morocco were in control throughout, claiming they had 70% of possession to the Dutch 30%.

He described the contest as a tactical match and said the Netherlands sat deep with a back four, waiting for Morocco to make mistakes. Wahbi added that his team had to stay patient after conceding, but kept creating chances despite several good saves from the Dutch goalkeeper.

Wahbi also said he had dreamt of Diop scoring a decisive header for Morocco, and told the forward after the match that the goal was deserved.

Morocco now prepare to face Canada, one of the hosts, on 13 July in Houston.