Marruecos entered the knockout stage in Qatar without any pressure. The favored team was Spain, while the African squad simply awaited the match, holed up in their hotel and showing no signs of considering knocking out what was perceived as one of the favorites. In the decisive match, they took shelter, this time around Bono’s goal.
Now, in 2026, Achraf’s team arrives at the decisive matches almost as favorites, as they showcased in the tumultuous Africa Cup. The challenge lies in whether they can handle the expectations of playing to win. The reputation of the Moroccan national team has significantly grown; they are no longer just the appealing side that made their first steps in elite football during Qatar.
The opponent in the round of 16 in Monterrey is a familiar contender in these encounters (follow the match live on AS.com). Holland arrives after a decisive victory over Sweden, a draw against Japan, and a comfortable win against Tunisia. They have displayed a strong sense of confidence throughout their time in North America.
In Honor of Gakpo
Koeman comes and goes from the Dutch team’s bench, much like another legend, Van Gaal, suggesting that the position seems shared between two figures. Since 2018, they’ve alternated roles. The current Dutch squad boasts relatively new names, capturing the attention of many, including the scorer Brobbey from Sunderland and Summerville from West Ham, alongside the stalwarts Frankie de Jong, Depay, and Van Dijk, loyal to Koeman, each playing vital roles in the team.
The Dutch team is clear that this match is dedicated entirely to Gakpo and his family following their loss of an expected baby. The player has chosen to stay with his teammates and will be on the pitch in Monterrey, evoking admiration from the squad towards the forward, reflecting a shared sentiment of support.
Smooth Sailing
On the sporting front, Marruecos progresses through the World Cup without a hitch. Achraf’s leadership is evident, warmly supported by several players, especially the Lille gem, Bouaddi. This midfielder, previously part of the French team, is likely to transition to one of Europe’s top clubs. Aynaoui and Brahim Díaz understand the desires of the PSG fullback, which center around making Morocco a formidable title contender.
