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Morocco defender Noussair Mazraoui has hailed the team’s hard-earned victory over Netherlands, Completesports.com reports.
The Atlas Lions defeated Netherlands 3-2 in a highly dramatic penalty shootout at Monterrey Stadium.
Cody Gakpo opened the scoring for Netherlands 18 minutes from time with Crysencio Summerville providing the assist.
The Oranje looked set to progress until Morocco substitute Issa Diop climbed highest to head home Chemsdine Talbi’s cross from the left, sending the tie into extra time.
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Yassine Bounou then emerged as Morocco’s hero in the shootout, saving Summerville’s effort after both sides had missed two penalties, before Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot-kick to set up a Round of 16 clash with co-hosts Canada in Houston on 4 July.
Mazraoui Happy With Morocco’s Progress
Mazraoui expressed delight after Morocco secured their place in the next round.
“A really tough game against a really tough opponent. One of the best opponents you can face in the world,” Mazraoui was quoted by FIFA.com.
“It’s a top 10 of the world, I think a contender to win eventually the World Cup. The way that we managed to win today is a huge acknowledgment for us as a national team, of course.”
