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Updated Jun 30, 2026 · 13:36
Sports World News Updated Jun 30, 2026

Morocco's World Cup Fairytale Continues: Hakimi Warns "We're Not Done Yet"

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has proclaimed his team's World Cup journey is not over after reaching the Round of 16. The African side defeated the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after a dramatic 1-1 draw in extra time. Issa Diop scored a stoppage-time header to force extra time and was named Player of the Match. Morocco will now face co-hosts Canada in the knockout stage.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Hakimi says "We're not done yet" after Morocco reach Round of 16

Guadalupe, June 30

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has made it clear that his side's FIFA World Cup 2026 journey is far from over, posting a confident message on social media after the African side secured a Round of 16 berth in the ongoing 23rd edition.

Following Morocco's thrilling 3-2 penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands after a 1-1 draw following extra time, Hakimi took to X to express his determination ahead of the knockout stages.

"We're not done yet," Hakimi wrote on X.

Morocco's Player of the Match, Issa Diop, credited a complete team performance after the African side defeated the Netherlands in a penalty shootout

Speaking to the host broadcaster in a video shared by DAZN Football on X after the match, Diop praised the collective effort of his teammates and said the squad had executed its game plan perfectly.

"Yeah. It's just a team performance today. It was the whole team performing very well. We executed the plan very well. And in the end, we won it. And I'm just exhausted. I just want to recover, and that's it," Diop said.

Morocco secured a dramatic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch the lead in the second half with an emotional goal, days after announcing the loss of his unborn child, but Issa Diop's stoppage-time header forced extra time.

With neither side able to find a winner, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as Morocco's hero by saving Crysencio Summerville's penalty before Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot-kick. Morocco will now face co-hosts Canada in the Round of 16.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Sarah B

Amazing team spirit from Morocco! Diop's goal was perfectly timed. Bounou in goal is just unbeatable under pressure. Looking forward to seeing them take on Canada.

Rohit P

What a match yaar! I stayed up till 3am to watch this in Mumbai. Worth every minute! Hakimi's passion is contagious. But honestly, the Netherlands were unlucky, especially with Gakpo's emotional goal. That man's story is heartbreaking. Football is a beautiful game that unites us all, even across continents. 🥲⚽

James A

Morocco are definitely the dark horses this year. I hope they can go all the way. Canada won't be easy though, they have home advantage.

Vikram M

Magnificent team effort! This is what happens when you have belief and unity. Diop's celebration after the header was pure emotion. However, credit to Netherlands too - they played well. But Morocco's penalty shootout composure was top-class. Makes me wonder why our Indian football team can't replicate this spirit on the big stage. We need more grassroots investment! 🇮🇳⚽

Shreya B

Absolute chills watching this match! From a football-loving desi girl in Delhi, I'm so proud of Morocco's performance. But I hope the Netherlands bounce back strong - Gakpo's goal gave me goosebumps knowing what he went through. Sports really has so much heart. Also, Canada vs Morocco will be a cracker! 🔥

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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