Story by Anashe Murombedzi
MOROCCO have become the first African nation to reach the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands.
The Atlas Lions held their nerve to win 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, securing a place in the knockout stage of the expanded tournament.
Building on their remarkable semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Morocco once again showcased their resilience on football’s biggest stage and will now face Canada in the Round of 16.
Elsewhere, four-time world champions Germany suffered a shock exit after losing 4-3 on penalties to Paraguay following a 1-1 draw, bringing their tournament campaign to an early end.
Brazil also advanced to the last 16 after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan. The five-time champions were pushed all the way by a disciplined and high-pressing Japanese side.
Attention now turns to Tuesday’s Round of 32 fixtures, where Côte d’Ivoire face Norway for a place in the last 16, with the winners set to meet Brazil.
Another high-profile clash sees France take on Sweden, with the winners advancing to face Paraguay in the next round.
